A symposium focused on stability, development and ethnic unity of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region was held in Muscat, the capital and largest city of Oman, on Sunday, showcasing China's achievements in human rights protection and improvement of people's livelihoods in the multi-ethnic autonomous region.
Organized by China's State Council Information Office, the event offered a platform for people in the west Asian country to gain insights into Xinjiang and foster exchanges between the two countries.
Lyu Jian, China's ambassador to Oman, said at the event that China and Oman share similar civilizational vision and should strengthen exchanges and cooperation.
Chinese attendees introduced Xinjiang's progress in economic and social development, cultural and religious affairs, education, and ethnic unity.
"Xinjiang has always been home to multiple religions. This event deepens understanding of the Communist Party of China's policies on governing Xinjiang in the new era and helps build consensus on the issue among walks of life in Oman," said Yimure Wusman, a religious figure from Xinjiang.
"Scholars, officials and religious figures from both countries had candid discussions at the event. The two countries can learn from each other's experience in human rights protection, religious affairs management, and other areas," said Xing Guangcheng, director of the Institute of Chinese Borderland Studies under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.
Omani participants said that different ethnic groups in Xinjiang live in harmony, contributing to China's economic growth.
They also added that the Chinese government has been dedicating to protecting the rights of ethnic groups while some Western countries apply double standards on the issue of human rights.
"This event will undoubtedly strengthen Oman-China relations. The two countries have extensive common interests and a bright future for cooperation. Their rich histories and cultures complement each other's progress. Meetings like this will further advance bilateral ties" said Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Arimi, chairman of the Oman Journalists Association.
Symposium on Xinjiang's development, ethnic unity held in Oman
