By: Maarij Farooq
Xinjiang, a region that has long been associated with unrest and terrorism, has undergone a remarkable transformation under Chinese leadership. For years, the region was plagued by extremism, violence, and instability, which not only threatened China’s national security but also had broader implications for the region and its development. Despite the immense challenges, Xinjiang has managed to overcome these hurdles and is now on a path to peace, stability, and economic prosperity. This transformation, however, has not been without its critics, particularly in the West, which continues to push a narrative of oppression and unrest in Xinjiang to serve its geopolitical interests. The West’s aim, particularly in Pakistan, is to distort the region’s realities, thus poisoning the future of Sino-Pak relations.
For decades, Xinjiang faced the horrors of terrorism, fueled by separatist movements and extremist ideologies. These forces were not only a threat to China but to regional stability as well. However, through a combination of development-focused policies, education initiatives, and a robust counter-terrorism strategy, China has successfully managed to end the cycle of violence that once gripped the region. Today, Xinjiang is one of the most peaceful and fast-developing regions in China, offering a stark contrast to its violent past.
The economic development in Xinjiang has been remarkable. The region is now a critical part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with its strategic position serving as a gateway between China and Central Asia. Massive infrastructure projects, including highways, railways, and energy pipelines, have not only boosted Xinjiang’s economy but have also created thousands of jobs for the local population. The region is rapidly becoming an economic powerhouse, with industries ranging from textiles to technology taking root, supported by the Chinese government’s focused investments. But these successes do not fit into the West’s narrative, which prefers to portray Xinjiang as a region of oppression, seeking to destabilise it for their own strategic interests.
The West’s agenda in Xinjiang is clear: by spreading disinformation about the region, they hope to create fissures in China’s development trajectory, particularly by influencing countries like Pakistan. The focus of this propaganda has increasingly been on Pakistan’s younger generation, who, through the pervasive influence of digital media, are more vulnerable to external narratives. Pakistan, being a religiously sensitive country, is particularly susceptible to such disinformation. By framing China’s efforts in Xinjiang as an attack on Muslims, the West hopes to turn the Pakistani populace, particularly its youth, against China. The ultimate goal is to weaken the deep-rooted friendship between Pakistan and China, especially as this partnership is critical to the success of projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
CPEC, often referred to as the crown jewel of the Belt and Road Initiative, is a testament to China’s unwavering support for Pakistan. At a time when Pakistan was facing economic isolation and international pressure, particularly from its neighbors, China stepped up to help. With an investment of over $62 billion, CPEC has not only revitalized Pakistan’s infrastructure but has also created tens of thousands of jobs and injected billions into the economy. The construction of new highways, railways, and energy projects has been a game-changer for Pakistan, giving it a new lease on economic growth and sustainability. Despite attempts by external forces to sabotage CPEC through negative propaganda, the project continues to thrive, with both China and Pakistan committed to its success.
The narrative being pushed by the West, particularly through digital platforms, is aimed at undermining this relationship. The use of social media and other digital tools to spread falsehoods about Xinjiang and CPEC is deeply concerning. The West’s focus on Pakistan’s youth, using religion as a divisive tool, is part of a broader strategy to alienate the younger generation from China. If left unchecked, this could have long-term consequences for the future of Sino-Pak relations. It is imperative for Pakistan and China to jointly counter these efforts by utilizing the same digital platforms to tell the true story of Xinjiang and the benefits of CPEC.
The use of digital media to counter disinformation is not just an option, it is a necessity. Well-wishers of Sino-Pak relations must recognize the power of these platforms in shaping public opinion. A robust digital strategy, one that engages Pakistan’s youth, highlights the real progress in Xinjiang, and underscores China’s support for Pakistan, is needed to counter the West’s false narratives. By using the latest tools and technologies, we can connect with the youth, provide them with facts, and show them the real picture of China’s development. China has always stood by Pakistan, whether it was during times of economic difficulty or when India threatened to isolate Pakistan internationally. The two nations have weathered many storms together, and now it is crucial to protect this relationship from external manipulation.
It is also important to remember that in 2013, when the Muslim Ummah turned its back on Pakistan, China was the only country that stepped up to support us. Whether through CPEC or other forms of assistance, China has demonstrated its commitment to Pakistan’s prosperity. The younger generation in Pakistan must be made aware of this friendship, so that they, too, can carry forward this legacy of cooperation and mutual respect.
Xinjiang’s transformation is a story of resilience, development, and peace. Despite facing terrorism for years, the region has emerged stronger under Chinese leadership. The West’s attempts to destabilize Xinjiang and damage Sino-Pak relations through disinformation must be met with a united front. By leveraging digital media, engaging with Pakistan’s youth, and highlighting the real benefits of China’s support, particularly through CPEC, we can ensure that the future of Sino-Pak relations remains strong. The task ahead is clear: we must counter the false narratives and tell the true story of Xinjiang and the unshakable friendship between Pakistan and China.
The writer is deputy editor-in-chief at Daily Ittehad Media Group and Pakistan Economic Net.
