cross-posted from: https://lemmy.sdf.org/post/42563662
China’s state media recently reported that over 60 foreign parliamentarians visited the Uyghur homeland between September 11 and 13, with Xinhua highlighting the “impressive achievements” of the region’s economic and social development. According to the report, the visitors toured cities including Kashgar, Ili, and Aksu, visiting religious sites, bazaars, cotton fields, and cultural landmarks, where they reportedly experienced “prosperity, social harmony, and ethnic integration.”
Xinhua quoted some of the foreign lawmakers praising the region. Zimbabwean MP Brian Mudumi reportedly said: “I learned valuable lessons from China’s Xinjiang development model… I will bring these experiences back to Zimbabwe to attract global investment.” Indian former parliamentarian Ashok Danwar commented on mechanized agriculture, noting that modern equipment “reduces labor intensity and improves efficiency.” Belarusian legislator Sergey Aleinik expressed hopes for future collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative.
While these statements were presented as evidence of the Uyghur homeland’s success, independent observers and human rights organizations argue that these visits are orchestrated propaganda exercises. China has long used controlled tours to foreign delegations to portray the Uyghur homeland as a model of ethnic harmony and development, while simultaneously denying well-documented abuses against Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities.
Reports from multiple credible sources—including testimonies from former detainees, satellite imagery, and leaked government documents—have revealed mass detention camps, forced labor, and systematic suppression of Uyghur language and religion. These actions constitute what many international experts and governments describe as genocide.
Analysts warn that Chinese state media deliberately selects participants, controls itineraries, and stages encounters to present a sanitized view of the Uyghur homeland.
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