Diplomats, business leaders in Hong Kong explore Xinjiang’s beauty, eye collaboration

A delegation of diplomats and business leaders from Hong Kong recently concluded a visit to China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, organized by the Commissioner’s Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). The trip aimed to foster exchanges between Hong Kong and Xinjiang, offering participants a firsthand experience of the region’s cultural, economic, and natural allure. Delegates expressed surprise at Xinjiang’s vibrancy, describing it as more dynamic than anticipated. They emphasized the potential for enhanced cooperation between the two regions, particularly in trade, tourism, and clean energy. The delegation visited key cities, including Urumqi, Kashgar, and Yining, each offering unique cultural and economic characteristics. At Tianchi Lake, a glacial basin surrounded by snow-capped mountains, delegates marveled at the region’s natural beauty. In Kashgar’s ancient city, they immersed themselves in its rich history and lively atmosphere. The trip also highlighted Xinjiang’s strategic role as a transport and trade hub along the Silk Road Economic Belt, with the Horgos Port serving as a critical node for cross-border commerce. Delegates discussed potential collaborations, such as leveraging Hong Kong’s expertise in logistics and cold chain transportation to connect Xinjiang with global markets. The visit underscored the growing ties between Hong Kong and Xinjiang, with Cathay Pacific launching direct flights between the two regions in April 2025. Participants left with a deeper appreciation of Xinjiang’s opportunities and a commitment to fostering partnerships that benefit both regions.