China's Xinjiang cultural exchange delegation visits US

A delegation from China's Xinjiang autonomous region concluded its two-day visit to Houston, Texas of the United States on Friday, with the aim of enhancing mutual understanding.

The delegation, organized by the State Council Information Office of China, visited the Asia Society Texas Center and the University of St Thomas Houston respectively.

Zuo Feng, deputy director general of the Bureau of Human Rights of the State Council Information Office of China, briefed scholars and some local Chinese people on China's stance on Xinjiang-related issues, the implementation of ethnic and religious policies in the region, and its recent development.

Zuo explained that the main purpose of their visit is to promote the understanding of Xinjiang autonomous region among Americans, especially academia, and enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

In the forums organized by the Asia Society Texas Center and the University of St Thomas, Zuo discussed with scholars, answered questions about education, employment and human rights issues in Xinjiang.

Attending the forum held by University of St. Thomas, Chinese Consul General in Houston Li Qiangmin said China will continue following the path of peaceful development, pursuing a mutually beneficial and open strategy, and further enhancing cooperation and collaboration with major countries.

During the visit, the Chinese delegation communicated with scholars in Houston's think tanks and universities. Li said he believed it is significant to deepen the exchanges between China and the United States, and promote understanding, mutual trust and friendship.

Charles Foster, former chairman and a board member of the Asia Society Texas Center, recalled his visit to Xinjiang during the discussion. He said that the participants have learned more about China's ethnic policies as well as the development of Xinjiang.

Richard Ludwick, president of University of St Thomas, said he believed openness is the signal sent out by the delegation. The university is willing to build a bridge so that students from Xinjiang and America will have more chances to visit each other, he said.

The delegation will leave Houston for New York on Saturday. Later, they will visit Ottawa and Toronto in Canada.