Source:

01-13-2006 17:00

The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is one of China’s largest and most sparsely populated areas. In previous episodes of this 4-part series we have followed efforts to develop Xinjiang and maintain its security. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, agrarian and industrial development became the main focus. Soldiers who were not needed for border security were assigned to construction and farming. Most of the soldiers were transplanted from their hometowns and felt unsettled. Familiar cultural forms could help them feel more at home in their new surroundings. As part of cultural work in the area, the renowned poet Ai Qing came to Xinjiang. The sacrifices of the new settlers inspired some of his best work.

The policy of assigning surplus troops to agricultural work has been used many times over the past 2,000 years. Xinjiang is far from China’s main grain-producing areas. The policy tried to overcome the problem of long supply trains for troops. The Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps has established farms between the border sentry posts. Some of these have developed into small towns. Beitun was carved out of the unforgiving land on the border.

Many formerly desolate areas of Xinjiang have been transformed into fertile farmland. Agriculture and industry have improved remarkably over the past half century. But without increased trade, further development would be impossible. Ancient China’s land trade routes passed through Xinjiang. Now, trade with neighbouring Central Asian countries is booming. Ensuring border security is key to protecting Xinjiang’s trade links. In the last part of our four-part series, we will uncover the great advances made in Xinjiang. Training a highly skilled workforce and encouraging international trade are key to ensuring Xinjiang’s continuing development and prosperity.

 

Editor:Wang Ping