China's autonomous region of Tibet is often referred to as “the roof of the world.” President Xi Jinping once noted that in order for Tibet and its people to prosper, the well-being of all ethnic groups is paramount, with national unity and people's livelihoods combining to boost social and economic progress. In the city of Nyingchi in Tibet, the village of Baji has undergone a tremendous transformation in recent years, spurred on by one very special visitor.

"Do you remember me? On July 21, 2011, you gave me a hug in Baji village." Phurbu Lhabang, a primary schoolo student said.

For this boy, the memory of a special guest visiting his village six years ago is still fresh in the mind. That guest was none other than the then vice-president Xi Jinping, who came here for a field inspection. The unique experience left a lasting impression on Phurbu Lhabang, who is now never short of a story to tell.

"People dressed up and welcomed the guests with highland barley wine and khata..." Phurbu said in a speech competition.

President Xi's visit also inspired other villagers, such as Kalsang Bangrgyl. Xi paid a visit to his house and chatted with him about daily life in Tibet. Xi Jinping also encouraged him to lead his fellow villagers towards common prosperity through hard work.

He said, "President Xi said the Tibetans and Han people cannot live without each other, and the two groups should become prosperous together."

Kalsang Bangrgyl took President Xi's words to heart and put them into action with other villagers.

Baji Village now has a reputation as "the village of cars," and every household has an annual income of at least 20,000 yuan, or 3,000 US dollars.

The roads President Xi once walked on are now packed with cars and houses.

And as the wealthiest village in Nyingchi, Baji is preparing to launch a logistics center next year.

“President Xi had an everlasting influence on me.” Migmar Tsering, a graduate student from Tibet University said. “He helped me understand how to better serve the country, shoulder any burden, and be a qualified Party member.”

Migmar Tsering added that the villagers in Baji are aiming to build the village into a better township, so that if they one day meet President Xi again, they can tell him about the village's transformation in person.