URUMQI (Internews): The 2025 Media Cooperation Forum of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) countries officially opened in Urumqi, the capital of China’s northwestern Xinjiang Uyghur autonomous region. The high profile event hosted by People’s Daily and the people’s government of Xinjiang Uyghur autonomous region, brought together media representatives, officials, and experts from across SCO member states to enhance regional cooperation, share development stories and promote mutual understanding.
While addressing the welcome dinner hosted in the honor of distinguished gusts, Erkin Tuniyaz, Deputy Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Xinjiang Uyghur autonomous regional committee and governor of the people’s government of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous region highlighted the region’s remarkable transformation in recent years. “Xinjiang is experiencing a period of stability, prosperity, and dynamic growth,” Tuniyaz said.
He emphasized that the region has become a key player in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), leveraging its strategic location to deepen trade and cultural exchanges with neighboring countries.
Tuniyaz pointed to significant improvements in infrastructure, education, and social services by stating that “Our youth are empowered with the skills needed for a modern economy.”
Tuniyaz also praised the region’s cultural vibrancy. “Xinjiang is home to a rich ethnic tradition. Our music and folk arts symbolize our diverse and beautiful heritage,” he noted, referring to cultural exchange programs with different countries.
The speech underscored the SCO’s commitment to media collaboration, encouraging truthful and constructive reporting about member nations.
With a renewed focus on high-quality development and openness, Xinjiang is positioning itself as a dynamic bridge between China and the Eurasian region.
Trade and economic development were central themes at his speech. Xinjiang’s import and export volumes have seen robust growth driven by increased connectivity through land ports and logistics hubs. The region’s agricultural products, textiles and high-tech goods are gaining broader access to global markets.
Yu Shaoliang, president of People’s Daily, China welcomed the delegates in Urumqi, the beautiful city of Xinjiang.
He says that as President of People’s Daily, I extend heartfelt congratulations on the successful convening of the SCO Media Forum 2025 in the vibrant city of Urumqi, Xinjiang.
Participants attending the forum opined that this forum stands as a beacon of unity and cooperation among the media institutions of the SCO member states. It is a powerful platform for fostering mutual understanding, strengthening journalistic collaboration, advancing the shared values of peace, development and cultural respect.
