Photo taken on June 3, 2021 shows the 10th Press Conference on Xinjiang-related Issues in Beijing. Photo by Xinjiang Daily/ Zhou Peng

Bi Haibo: Good morning, friends from the press, welcomed to attend the 10th Press Conference on Xinjiang-Related Issues. Some anti-China forces have been attacking and slandering Xinjiang on the pretext of “forced labor” for a period of time, which has attracted the media who give a wide coverage about this. Today we invite heads of related departments, managers of textile and other industries, scholars and employees to discuss with us. Next I’d like to invite Mr. Xu Guixiang, the spokesperson of the People’s Government of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region to introduce the relevant situation.

Xu Guixiang: Dear friends from the media, good morning. I am glad to see some familiar faces. Welcome to the 10th press conference on Xinjiang-related issues held in Beijing by the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

First of all, I’d like to introduce today’s participants from Xinjiang. They are Elijan Anayat, spokesperson of the People’s Government of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, and Rahmanjan Dawut, director of the Department of Human Resources and Social Security of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Ildos Murat, vice chairman of Federation of Trade Unions of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Nurai Yunus, vice chairman of Federation of industry and Commerce of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Liu Qingjiang, vice chairman of Cotton Textile Industry Association of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region; Pan Cunxiang, secretary-general of Nonferrous Metals Industry Association of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region; Arkin Shamshaq, vice dean of Xinjiang University’s Law School, and Akbar Turahun, an employee of Aksu Huafu Mélange Co., Ltd. They will introduce to us and share their views about the issues of labor and employment security in Xinjiang.

First, I will take this opportunity to express my understanding and views on this issue.

The so-called “forced labor” is nothing but a fallacy fabricated by anti-China organizations and individuals in the United States and other Western countries. We have made solemn statements and exposed their lies in previous conferences and other occasions. But the obstinate anti-China forces in the West insist on spreading rumors and intentionally provoke conflicts on some international stages. Proceeding from such circumstance, it’s highly due to hold this on-point conference to speak out the truth and clarify the facts in order to lay bare the despicable acts of those forces. At present, I will emphasize a few points.

First, what is the definition of “forced labor”? At the early 20th century, colonialism was promoted by capitalist powers. Large-scale forced labor and severe slavery exploitation happened in colonial countries. In this context, the ILO aroused its member states to formulate a series of conventions. Taking Forced Labor Convention, 1930 (No.29) as an example, the Convention defines forced labor as "all work or service which is exacted from any person under the menace of any penalty and for which the said person has not offered himself voluntarily" in Article 2, Paragraph 1. Three elements are the core of this definition; they are “under the menace of penalty” ”involuntary” and “non-definite objects”. Protocol 2014 of the Forced Labor Convention, 1930 further elaborates that human trafficking for the sake of obtaining labors falls into the catalogue of “forced labor”. Hence one can see that some countries, organizations and individuals objectively conjecture “forced labor” in Xinjiang departs from the truth and defies the definition.

Second, how does Xinjiang do about this? Chinese government attaches great importance to the protection of the labourers’ rights and consistently objects forced labor. This can be found in laws and regulations. China conducts thorough screening and rectification on illegal and criminal acts in employing; any relevant crime will be punished. Xinjiang conscientiously implements national laws and regulations and resolutely prevents any form of forced labor. On September 17, 2020, the Information Office of the State Council released the white paper "Employment Security in Xinjiang", which reviewed the basic conditions of labor and employment in Xinjiang, including the implement active employment policies, the full respect of workers’ willingness, the guarantee of workers’ basic rights, how labor creates better life, how Xinjiang practice the international labor and human rights standards. Xinjiang is committed to people-oriented concept, upholds social justice, and answers the call ILO. Xinjiang integrates decent working in its policy formulating and planning. It is determined to remove obstacles hindering workers participation, development and sharing the benefits. It spares no efforts in respecting workers’ will, protect their rights, improving working environment and fulfilling workers’ values. Its pursuit of decent working and all-round development is in line with the consensus and aspiration of the international community. Employment has always been the largest and fundamental livelihood project of the public interests for government in Xinjiang. The employment and entrepreneurship systems have been perfected, surplus labourers transferred, college graduates aided in securing a job, retires military personnel re-hired, the disadvantaged supported. We can say Xinjiang has maximized its employment of labourers. The voice and will of workers are the basis for formulating relevant policies, opening fresh channels, conducting work training and services. Regular surveys of workers’ employment will are conducted to grasp their preference and requests on working location, posts available, salary package, working conditions, living environment and promotion prospect. The results will facilitate in-time refinement of tailored policies.

Third, what results has been achieved? Active employment policies made stable, sustained and long-term employment possible for people of all ethnic groups. According to incomplete statistics, transferred Xinjiang workers in the inland make a per capita annual income of 40,000 yuan, which is basically the same with the disposable income of local urban residents. Transferred workers in Xinjiang register a yearly per capita 30,000 yuan, which is far higher than the original farming income. People of all ethnic groups are working in trades of various kinds. The delightful vision of every family having access to jobs and income comes true.

There is no doubt that people of all ethnic groups are working in dignity and living a happy life with the care from the government. However, with the disguise of human rights, some forces cook up a vitriolic hype on “forced labor”. Their hidden intention is to deprive the people of their legal labor rights, trapping them in poverty, isolation and backwardness. Their conspiracy of disrupting Xinjiang’s peace and progress is to restrict China. Such move goes against the trend of history and will surely end in bankruptcy.

These are my concerned thoughts for your reference.

Next, I would like to invite Mr. Rahmanjan Dawut, director of the Department of Human Resources and Social Security of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region to introduce the implementation of labor and employment security policies in Xinjiang.

Photo taken on June 3, 2021 shows Rahmanjan Dawut, director of Department of Human Resources and Social Security of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region answers questions at the 10th Press Conference on Xinjiang-related Issues in Beijing. Photo by Xinjiang Daily/ Zhou Peng

Rahmanjan Dawut: Employment plays a big role in protecting people’s rights of labor, improving people’s livelihood, and ensuring peace and harmony in the society. Since the 18th National Congress, Xinjiang has been taking proactive gestures in employment projects benefiting people, increasing vocational training, opening up new work channels and enlarging hiring capacity. Thanks to those measures, employment achieved sustained growth, ensued by quality life, enhanced sense of fulfilling, happiness and security.

In recent years, Xinjiang has conscientiously implemented national laws and regulations, adhered to the policy of “workers choose jobs independently, market-regulated employment, government promotes employment and encourages entrepreneurship”, implemented employment priority strategies and more active employment policies, and accelerated the construction of a public employment service system. Promoting the continuous improvement of the employment situation and the overall stability of the employment situation has become a prominent highlight in the development and improvement of people's livelihood.

The first is to implement the employment priority strategy, take the expansion and absorption of employment as an important factor in the formulation of social development policies and the implementation of major projects, establish an economic structure and growth model conducive to employment expansion, and promote the coordination of industrial structure, regional development and employment levels. From 2014 to 2020, the total number of employees in Xinjiang increased from 11.352,400 to 13.690,800, an increase of 20.6%; the average annual increase in urban employment was over 470,000.

The second is to adopt pro-employment policies，such as, employment and entrepreneurship subsidies, vocational skills training subsidies, social insurance subsidies, tax incentives, and entrepreneurial guarantee loans. Take measures to encourage enterprises to absorb employers, and support urban and rural workers to seek self-employment and entrepreneurship. In 2020, the Hotan area alone issued a guaranteed loan of 1.708 billion yuan, an increase of 798 million yuan over 2019, helping 26,200 college graduates, rural labourers, and people with difficulties to start businesses. Adilai Abulaiti, from Kuqa City, Aksu Prefecture, returned to her hometown to start a business after graduating from Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology in 2018. With the help of the government, she set up a clothing company. In 2019, it registered more than 2 million in revenue, hiring more than 40 women. Jibek Nurlanhan from Altay City is disabled. After graduating from university, she returned to her hometown to participate in entrepreneurship training courses organized by local human resources and social department. The government also helped her raise 100,000 yuan and register a company called Akyi Eke Department Store, which is mainly engaged in Kazakh embroidery handicrafts and has a monthly income of more than 6,000 yuan.

The third is to continuously strengthen the community-based public employment and talent service institutions. Provide public employment services for labor from poor families, unemployed college graduates, and jobless urban residents so that labourers have equal opportunities to participate in employment and entrepreneurship. By the end of 2020, there were 186 human resources markets at or above the county level and 12,853 grassroots labor security stations in Xinjiang, providing various employment services for more than 21.895 million person-times that year. From 2014 to 2020, a total of 376,400 people with difficulties in urban areas have been helped to find jobs, and the 24-hour dynamic resetting of zero-employment families has been ensured. In 2020, the employment rate of fresh graduates from Xinjiang colleges and universities will reach 89.05%, and the employment rate of Xinjiang ethnic minority graduates returning Xinjiang from inland colleges and universities will reach 92.48%.

The fourth is to promote the employment of ethnic minorities. People of all ethnic groups, especially ethnic minority, are encouraged to seek local employment and transferred employment. Employment and entrepreneurship through multiple channels are promoted to increase and employment income and protect people’s rights labor and employment to the greatest extent, The local government develops labor-intensive industries such as textiles and garments, agricultural product processing and tertiary industries such as catering, tourism, and commerce to create suitable jobs.

Under the guidance of the local government, with the help of public employment service agencies, some ethnic minority youths in Xinjiang secured jobs in enterprises in partner assistance provinces of their own free will. Their monthly per capita income exceeds 3,000 yuan, with the highest reaching 6,000-7,000 yuan per month, much more than the income from household farming, delivered palpable outcome in poverty-alleviation career. Thanks to stable employment and real income, people’s living conditions have improved significantly.

I highlight that the fundamental principle and prerequisite for employment and labor transfer is to fully respect the individual wishes and choices. Under no circumstances has anyone been forced to work in any post anywhere.

First, the employment of people of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang is protected by law. Xinjiang has always followed the "Articles of the International Labour Organization" and the spirit of the relevant conventions, and strictly implemented the "Labor Law of the People's Republic of China", "Labor Contract Law of the People's Republic of China", "Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Implementation Opinions on the Implementation of the "labor Law of the People's Republic of China", " Implementation of ‘Regulations on Labor Security Supervision’ in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region” and other laws and regulations. The establishment, operation, supervision, and mediation of labor relations are all based on rule of law. Forced labor by means of violence, threats or illegal restrictions on personal freedom are prohibited tightly.

Second, people of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang enjoy full freedom of employment. As for one’s profession, where he goes and what does he do are out of his own discretion. Never has one’s freedom been restricted. What the government does is to perfect various employment promotion policies, build employment information platforms, improve labor and employment environment, create conditions for people of all ethnic groups to find satisfactory jobs and obtain stable income, and protect employment rights to the utmost.

Third, the labor rights and interests of the people of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang are guaranteed in conformity with legal provisions. The rights to remuneration, rest and vacation, labor safety and health protection, and the right to obtain social insurance benefits of workers of all ethnic groups are protected in accordance with the law. Whether in Xinjiang or other areas, the rights and interests of religious beliefs, ethnic culture, language and writing workers of all ethnic groups are respected and protected in accordance with the law.

For a period of time, some anti-China forces in the world, out of ideological prejudice, ignored Xinjiang’s tremendous efforts to protect human rights and adopted double standards for human rights. Disregarding facts, they distort facts, wantonly hyped up the so-called "forced labor " problem in Xinjiang, smeared Xinjiang's labor and employment security work, and tried to deprive people of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang of their labor rights, making them live in poverty, isolation, and backwardness forever, obstructing people’s pursuit of a beautiful and happy life. Such acts should be resolutely opposed by all people who love justice and progress.

Next, please watch two videos. The first reflects the work situation of employees in a tomato factory in Bayingol Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture; the second exhibits the transfer of employment in Alyem Rahman in Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture.

Xu Guixiang: Next, I would like to invite Mr. Ildos Murat, the vice chairman of Federation of Trade Unions in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, to introduce how Xinjiang protects the legitimate rights and interests of employees and wholeheartedly serves the employees.

Photo taken on June 3, 2021 shows Ildos Murat, vice chairman of Federation of Trade Unions of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region answers questions at the 10th Press Conference on Xinjiang-related Issues in Beijing. Photo by Xinjiang Daily/ Zhou Peng

Ildos Murat: Federation of Trade Unions is a mass organization that represents the interests of employees of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang and safeguards their legitimate rights and interests. We always perform our duty of safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of employees and serving the employees wholeheartedly, focusing on labor remuneration, working hours, rest and vacation, pension, work-related injury, medical care, unemployment insurance claims, and employee benefits and benefits that are directly related to employees. We strive to build a harmonious labor relationship. The trade union is the home of workers of all nationalities. At present, the district has established 32,500 grass-roots trade union organizations, covering 91,500 units, with trade union members of 4,366,700. More than 95% companies with more than 100 employees have joined the trade union across Xinjiang.

We safeguard the legal rights and interests of employees of all ethnic groups. We have set up nearly 100 laws service stations for employees throughout the district, providing free legal advice and legal aids to employees of all ethnic groups. We cooperated with the Judicial Department of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and the Xinjiang Lawyers Association to found a volunteer group of lawyers. The group has entered more than 3,000 enterprises, and the first-line workshops of grassroots enterprises to carry out "Learning Laws in Workplace" face-to-face law-popularization activities with employees. Based on the principle of equality and voluntariness, ethnic employees sign labor contracts with enterprises by law and obtain corresponding remuneration. We have carried out more than 10,000 legal service activities of public welfare for migrant workers in "Comply with Laws, Join Hands to Build Dreams", imparting workers with law knowledge about rights to remuneration, rights to rest and vacation, labor safety and health protection, and rights to social insurance benefits. Provide public benefit legal services.

We protect the labor rights of people of all ethnic groups stipulated in the law. We proactively provide various forms of training, employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for people of all ethnic groups, encourage, help and support them to work hard to get rich, get rid of poverty with our own hands, and live a better life. We have also carried out extensive skill-horning activities and set up a 30 million-yuan reward fund to encourage employees of all ethnic groups to improve their quality and skills, and choose careers of their free will. For example, the team leader in No. 5 Oil Field in Xinjiang Oilfield Heavy Oil Development Company, part-time vice chairman of Federation of Trade Unions in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Rozimamat Bake, has grown from an ordinary first-line oil worker to a skilled expert of CNPC with an annual income of about 390,000 yuan and enjoys special government allowances from the State Council. He won the honors of National Model Worker, National Excellent Communist Party Member, etc.

We provide wholehearted services to the general workers. Collective consultation and democratic operation of workers' congress has helped to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of employees. For example, the labor union will speak out by negotiating to shorten working hours, promote shifts and rest, stabilize and transfer jobs, and adjust wages when the legal rights and interests of employees are infringed. We do well in the relief of urban employees in difficulties, continuously increasing the degree of assistance, and providing inclusive, regular and precise services with the characteristics of the labor union to the employees, so that 84,000 needy employees have been relieved.

We fully respect the customs and habits of employees of all ethnic groups. Relevant enterprises and units are required to provide Muslim employees with halal catering, and at the same time, to enrich the cultural and entertainment life of employees. They purchase basketball, table tennis, football and other products, and often organize cultural evenings, social gatherings, festival dinners, and seminars.

The anti-China forces in the United States and the West wantonly smear the human rights status in Xinjiang and cook up the lie of "forced labor " in Xinjiang, which lay bare their sinister intentions to interfere in China's internal affairs and undermine Xinjiang's security and stability under the camouflage of human rights. In this regard, on behalf of Trade Union of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, I lodge firm opposition and strong condemnation! A lie cannot become truth even if repeated a thousand times. No matter how the anti-China forces in the United States and the West spread rumors and smears, they cannot stop Xinjiang’s prosperity and development, nor can they change the trend of unity, friendship, fellowship, and progress among the people of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang. Tomorrow will be better for Xinjiang.

Next, please watch the video about the working and living conditions of ethnic minority employees in Xinjiang cotton textile enterprises.

Xu Guixiang: Thank you for watching. Next, I’d like to invite Mr. Nurai Yunus, vice Chairman of Association of Industry and Commerce in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region to introduce how private enterprises in promote economic development, absorb employment, and improve people's livelihood.

Photo taken on June 3, 2021 shows Nurai Yunus, vice Chairman of Federation of Industry and Commerce of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region answers questions at the 10th Press Conference on Xinjiang-related Issues in Beijing. Photo by Xinjiang Daily/ Zhou Peng

Nurai Yunus: Supported by the state and autonomous region, private enterprises in Xinjiang continue to grow and develop. The private economy has played an important role in promoting economic development and expanding social employment. At present, private sector has become the most dynamic and promising economic driver, involving more than 40 industries including real estate, construction and installation, textiles, processing of agricultural by-products, petrochemicals, catering services, and specialty forests and fruits. As of the end of February 2021, the total number of registered market entities in Xinjiang has exceeded 2 million, of which 356,800 are private enterprises.

Private enterprises in Xinjiang have made contributions to employment promotion. In recent years, the majority of private enterprises have actively assumed social responsibilities and created a large number of jobs. In 2020, Xinjiang's private small, medium and micro enterprises absorb 179,500 jobs, accounting for 90% of the newly-increased employment in urban areas. At the same time, all private enterprises are actively expanding employment channels, and increasing employment options. For example, Hotan Balimu Trading Co., Ltd. adopts online and offline recruitment methods. Since the establishment of a clothing production cooperative in 2010, it has recruited 763 employees of various posts, which not only benefits employment, but also provides competitive salary for employees of all ethnic groups. The head of the company, Ubulhasan Ubulkasim, said: "Take a look at our company and you will understand that the so-called 'forced labor' is a shameless lie. The despicable scheme of the anti-China forces in the United States and the West will never succeed!"

Private enterprises in Xinjiang fully protect the legitimate rights and interests of employees. We strictly abide by the "Labor Law of the People's Republic of China" and other laws and regulations. We try to build harmonious labor relations by continuously improving working conditions, strengthening humanism solicitation, and ensuring work safety. All ethnic groups are equal. Companies sign labor contracts with employees of all ethnic groups in accordance with the law on the premise of equality and voluntariness. The contract will clarify the rights and obligations of employers and employees. The tripartite negotiation mechanism among government, labor union and enterprise organization representatives is improved. Employees of all ethnic groups have the right to work independently and choose their jobs freely. They horn their skills by working and shoot for pay raise. There is no “forced labor”. Companies pay social insurance premiums on schedule and in full amount. Profits distribution works by the principle of “more pay for more work”. Remuneration is paid in cash on time and in full. Companies also work to enrich employer’s spare time by holding various entertainment and cultural activities, including social events promoting fellowship and unity. Employers have strong sense of belonging and happiness. For example, last year, a number of enterprises jointly launched “Advancing in harmony” labor relationship initiative. The aim was to further improve capacities of public service and grassroots mediation and arbitration of labor relationships by allocate labor and payment more scientific and reasonable. The initiative also provides targeted services to protect employers’ rights and benefits.

Recent years, association of industry and commerce at all levels in the region, coordinating with relevant departments, established dynamic monitoring system for labor relations. Regular supervision and investigation of enterprises and employees are conducted, with focus on labor contracts, the signing and performing of collective contracts, work hour, rest and vocation, social insurance and disputes. The survey shows private sector has formed practical mechanism in building harmonious labor relations and safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of workers. Not even one case of minority employee being forced to work is found. Neither are they restricted in movement, nor are their religion and culture disregarded.

It has been proved by facts that Xinjiang has established harmonious labor relations. The human rights and other rights of people pf all ethnic groups are fully protected in Xinjiang. Everything happens in this land is fire and square, which can be tested by history. No external forces can disrupt the peace and stability in Xinjiang, nor can any forces encumber the progress in unity among people of all ethnic groups. The established facts of progressing human rights career cannot be obliterated.

Thank you for listening!

Xu Guixiang: Next, I would like to invite Mr. Liu Qingjiang, vice chairman of the Textile Industry Association of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, to introduce the rights and interests of workers of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang's textile industry.

Photo taken on June 3, 2021 shows Liu Qingjiang, vice chairman of Cotton Textile Industry Association of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region answers questions at the 10th Press Conference on Xinjiang-related Issues in Beijing. Photo by Xinjiang Daily/ Zhou Peng

Liu Qingjiang: In recent years, Cotton textile and garment industry has developed rapidly, driving economic growth, facilitating poverty alleviation, aiding employment and improving people’s livelihood. In spinning and other processing and production links, companies at large introduce advanced equipment and automatic devices from home and abroad. The intelligent production shops are the top-notch in domestic textile industry. There is no such thing as “forced labor”.

The textile industry stresses equality for all ethnic groups and gives full respect workers’ wishes. For a long time, textile enterprises recruit and treat employees in strict compliance with "Labor Law of the People's Republic of China", "Labor Contract Law of the People's Republic of China" and other laws and regulations. Independent and open recruitment is the usual practice. Employees obtain jobs through job fair, online recruitment or recommendation from acquaintances. None is forced to work, including ethnic minorities. For instance, Tursun Aili and Aygulsen Jamink, employees in a spinning workshop in Shihezi, are recommended by their relatives. After working, they find satisfied with the company and introduce more than a dozen fellow villagers to work in the same company. Textile enterprises in Xinjiang treat all candidates alike in recruiting, no discrimination allowed. Following the principle of amicable labor relations and fair labor rules, textile shops is committed to sign contract with employees on an equal, voluntary basis. The legally binding contract stipulates jobs description, working conditions, hour, remuneration, social insurance, rest and vocation, etc,.

Textile industry in Xinjiang is committed to protect rights and interests of workers of all ethnic groups. The booming textile industry has created more jobs and better working conditions, attracting the mass to join actively and voluntarily. “To each according to his work, more pay for more work” are practiced in distribution. Regardless of ethnicity and gender, employees get equal pay for equal work. One’s salary is in line with his skills. The average monthly pay is about 3500 RMB. For example, Meryem Yimaier, once a farmer in Wushi Country, now works in a textile company with a guaranteed monthly pay of 3500 yuan. Before, he has to seek manual work constantly without steal income. Now his family is better-off with the job that provides free accommodation. Textile companies highlight training for their employees, setting stage for people without employability skills. For example, more than 150 ethnic minority employees in Xinjiang Aksu Huafu Mélange Co., Ltd. have grown into team leaders, coaches and above. One of the factory’s automatic winding process coach Patigul Tursun won the 4th National Textile Industry Awards and Model workers in textile industry. In recent years, a total of 409 textile and garment technical experts and 3,300 skilled recruits in Xinjiang have been rewarded, fully illustrating the personal development of employees in ethnic minority enterprise. Humanistic management is taken seriously. Free accommodation and couples’ apartments are available. Surrounding public facilities are improved. Free shuttle buses run. Leisure activity centers equipped with fitness facilities are set up in some companies. Regular sports game, machine operation competitions and cultural evening are hold. Customs, religious beliefs and national language of minority employees are fully respected. Halal cafeteria is established. Celebrations are organized in every tradition festivals, such as New Year’s Eva, Spring Festival, Corban Festival and Roza Festival. The establishment of trade union is encouraged so as to safeguard employees’ legal rights and interests. As of the end of 2019, all textile and garment enterprises above designated size in Xinjiang have established trade union organizations.

Persons concerned, after conducting on-site inspection, evaluate objectively the human rights and employees’ freedom in textile enterprises in Xinjiang. In 2019, Akzo Huafu Mélange Co., Ltd. in "Social Labor Integration Project" (SLCP) promoted by international brands and non-governmental organizations, scored 96.9% accuracy, indicating the company meets the standards and requirements for downstream suppliers in terms of labor conditions. There is no “forced labor”. This year, members of Better Cotton Association (BCI), including H&M, Nike, and Adidas were criticized and boycotted by Chinese consumers for their slander on Xinjiang cotton, immediately after which BCI removed derogatory remarks. Such move proves that misinformation is self-defeating. BCI Shanghai Office issued statements twice clarifying it has never spot so-called “force labor” in Xinjiang and its headquarter will keep in touch with Xinjiang partners for future cooperation. MUJI also stated that it has entrusted a third party to investigate on the spot and no violations were discovered. It will continue to use Xinjiang cotton. Skechers, an American leisure sports brand, announced that independent investigation has proved no so-called “forced labor” phenomena exists in its Xinjiang suppliers. Xinjiang’s textile industry has become a significant link in global supply chain. “The white cotton cannot be smudged” is a consensus of all sectors in society.

Some Western countries, on the excuse of “forced labor”, take various measures to suppress textile enterprises in Xinjiang, creating a lose-lose situation, which will finally backfire. As the saying goes: "Rumors is not trustable, seeing is believing." We sincerely welcome unbiased organizations and companies from all countries to visit Xinjiang and inspect our textile and garment factories on their own. Then, they can see the reality and make independent judgment. I firmly believe facts speak louder than lies, truth will definitely defeat fallacies.

Thank you all!

Next, please watch two videos. The first reflects the working and living conditions of a female textile worker Renagul mamat in Aksu; the second reflects the employment situation of Tajigul Dawut in Yingjisha County, Kashgar Prefecture.

Xu Guixiang: Next, I would like to invite Mr. Pan Cunxiang, secretary general of the Nonferrous Metals Industry Association in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region to introduce the operation of Xinjiang's photovoltaic industry.

Photo taken on June 3, 2021 shows Pan Cunxiang, Secretary General of Nonferrous Metals Industry Association of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region answers questions at the 10th Press Conference on Xinjiang-related Issues in Beijing. Photo by Xinjiang Daily/ Zhou Peng

Pan Cunxiang: In early 2021, international solar power industry organizations and research institutions unveiled the so-called anti-forced labor alliance, targeting Xinjiang’s photovoltaic industry. This is the same trick as attacking the cotton industry. By labelling forced labor in Xinjiang’s photovoltaic industry, they attempt to curb its development and impeding China’s engagement in global photovoltaic value chain. In this regard, Non-Ferrous Metals Industry Association, Silicon Industry Branch and all affiliated companies are irritated and lodged solemn condemnation.

As we all know, polysilicon production is not a labor intensive industry, but a technology and capital intensive industry. At present, Xinjiang's polysilicon enterprises have reached the international first-class level, achieved a high degree of automation and digitalization, and 5G technology has been applied to the production process. Most operations in the factory are performed by computers. The "central nerve" of the entire polysilicon production is the central control room, where the main operator controls valves and other devices remotely through mouse and keyboard, and does not require a large number of employees to operate them manually in each production link. In crushing and packing, for example, with the introduction of automated equipment, the amount of manpower required has dropped by 50 per cent compared with a decade ago. Anyone who has visited the factory will know that polysilicon production is highly automated and intelligent, the factory is clean and tidy, the eight-hour work day is implemented, and the so-called "forced labor" is totally nonsense. Recently, the National Polysilicon Industry Development Forum was held in Xinjiang. Some media journalists interviewed some polysilicon production bases on the spot and found that there was no trace of "coercion" there. They were all modern factories with a high degree of automation and digitalization that have reached the international first-class level.

It needs to be emphasized that photovoltaic companies in Xinjiang are legally registered and operate in accordance with the law. They have always faithfully fulfilled their social responsibilities, abided by the code of business ethics, guaranteed equal employment and non-discrimination of ethnic minority employees, and guaranteed their freedom of movement in accordance with the law. There is no such issue as "forced labor". People of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang enjoy complete freedom in employment. They have the freedom to choose their professions, and go wherever and do what they want. They sign labor contracts with relevant enterprises through online recruitment, campus recruitment, talent market, employee introduction and other channels. Their rights to remuneration, rest and vacation, occupational safety and health, and social insurance and welfare are protected in accordance with the law. Their religious belief, ethnic culture, language and other rights and interests are respected and protected in accordance with the law. In addition, the company also provides various welfare benefits such as paid annual leave, home leave and year-end bonus. The employees of all ethnic groups are generally satisfied with the salary level and welfare treatment.

To promote the development of renewable energy, represented by photovoltaic, and to promote energy transformation has become the development consensus of all countries in the world. In a world where countries are stepping up their climate commitments, what is needed is more co-operation rather than smear. The "walling" and "decoupling" of some anti-China forces not only violates international trade rules and the principles of the market economy, but also undermines the global industrial and supply chains, and undermines the interests of businesses and consumers in the United States and other countries. China's photovoltaic industry is not only serving a country's market, but the global market. If we want to "extinction" of the photovoltaic industry in Xinjiang, I am afraid we should ask whether China's photovoltaic industry and the world's photovoltaic market agree? !

Finally, on behalf of the Nonferrous Metals Industry Association of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, I would like to welcome international solar energy industry organizations, research institutions and relevant national photovoltaic enterprises to visit and investigate in Xinjiang. We hope that relevant organizations and businesses will be responsible to themselves and others, distinguish right from wrong, respect facts, refrain from believing rumors and spreading rumors, and make correct judgments in line with their own interests.

Thank you very much.

Xu Guixiang: Now, I'd like to invite Professor Arkin Shamshaq, associate professor and vice dean of the Law School of Xinjiang University, to share his views on the so-called "forced labor" problem in Xinjiang. Professor Arkin Shamshaq is also an expert on this issue. Let's listen to his views.

Photo taken on June 3, 2021 shows Arkin Shamshaq, vice dean of Xinjiang University's Law School answers questions at the 10th Press Conference on Xinjiang-related Issues in Beijing. Photo by Xinjiang Daily/ Zhou Peng

Arkin Shamshaq: recently, the western anti-china a handful of countries based on an individual molecule imagination lies and false information, gratuitous criticism in China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is the so-called "forced labor", and the opportunity to throw the related legislation, limit the export of products in Xinjiang, Xinjiang enterprises, institutions and officials are launched a sanctions. However, the so-called "forced labor" in Xinjiang is a completely false proposition and a pure lie concocted by some anti-China elements. The existence of "forced labor" is not based on the subjective imagination of some country, some organization or some person. The international community has long had a clear definition of this issue. The Forced Labor Convention, adopted by the International Labor Organization on June 28, 1930, defines "forced Labor" as "all work or services performed by any person who is not voluntarily engaged under threat of punishment". In Xinjiang, people of all ethnic groups choose jobs of their own free will. The rights and interests of Uyghurs and other ethnic groups are protected by China's Constitution, Labor Law, Labor Contract Law, Criminal Law, Law on Penalties for Public Security Administration, Law on Employment Promotion and Law on Social Insurance. No matter in terms of the definition of international conventions, the provisions of Chinese laws, or the objective reality, the so-called "forced labor" does not exist and cannot exist in Xinjiang.

First, the equal right to employment of people of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang is protected by law. Safeguarding the right to equal employment is not only the best way to improve people's livelihood, but also an important manifestation of safeguarding human dignity and realizing a happy life for the people. In China, the Constitution, Labor Law, Labor Contract Law, Employment Promotion Law, Social Insurance Law, Law on the Protection of Rights and Interests of Women, Law on the Protection of the Disabled and other national laws provide an important legal basis for guaranteeing equal employment rights of workers. In addition, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region People's Congress (NPC) standing committee for implementation of the implementation of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Employment Promotion Law of the People's Republic of China measures of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region measures for the implementation of Labor Security Supervision Regulations, Regulations on the Worker Labor Rights and Interests Safeguard of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region to implement the measures for the People's Republic of China on the protection of women's rights The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region the measures for the implementation of the Law of the People's Republic of China Disabled Persons Act and other local regulations, ensures equal employment rights for all ethnic groups to provide a solid legal support, ensures that all citizens enjoy equal employment rights and qualifications, not because of nationality, race, gender, age, culture, religion, economic ability and restricted or discrimination.

Second, workers of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang voluntarily seek employment and choose their own jobs, and their personal freedom is protected by law. The labourer's right to choose his own job is the legal embodiment of the labourer's independent personality and free will. According to the criminal law of the People's Republic of China "Labor Law of the People's Republic of China" the law of the People's Republic of China Labor Contract Law of the People's Republic of China on Public Security Administration Punishment Law Regulations, forbidden by violence, threat or illegal restriction of personal freedom means of forced labor, and insult, corporal punishment, beating, illegal searches and seizures, worker, etc, punish these illegal acts according to law; If the case constitutes a crime, the offender shall be investigated for criminal responsibility according to law. In Xinjiang, people of all ethnic groups enjoy complete freedom in employment. Workers of all ethnic groups have the right to independently choose their jobs, and they can independently decide what kind of work they do, where they go to work and which employers they work for. Workers of all ethnic groups voluntarily sign labor contracts and establish labor relations with employers in accordance with the law, and their personal freedom is protected by law.

Third, the right to rest and vacation of workers of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang is protected by law. The right to rest and vacation is an important part of human rights, one of the basic rights of citizens stipulated by the constitution of our country, and a human right type that embodies the independence of labourer's personality and contains the interests of labourer. In accordance with relevant state laws and regulations, Xinjiang implements an eight-hour working day and 40-hour working week system. Unit of choose and employ persons needs to extend working hours because of production and management, must negotiate with trade union and labourer lawfully, and arrange remedial rest or pay corresponding remuneration. At the same time, the workers' rights to rest on statutory holidays and rest days such as Spring Festival, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are guaranteed in accordance with the law.

Fourth of all, the right of getting labor payment for labourers of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang is protected by law. The right of getting labor payment is the core of rights of labor. It’s a basic human right. It’s not only the basic guarantee of life for labourers and their families, but also the recognition and the evaluation of their work. The right is one of the core labor standards affirmed by the International Labor Organization and it’s also the key object protected by the Constitution, the Laws of Labor, the Laws of Labor Contract and the Law of Criminal. In Xinjiang, after labourers of all ethnic groups have done their part, they have the right to get their pay according to the associated laws of our country and the employers should give them the required money on time. If the employers violate the obligations that they should take on, then the labourers have the right to report and complain to the associated department according to our legislation. The administrative departments of human resources and social security at all levels and public security organizations should strengthen the construction of the linkage mechanism between administrative law enforcement and criminal justice, intensify the crackdown on the criminal behavior of refusing to pay labour remuneration, ensure that workers receive wages in full and on time, and earnestly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of workers of all ethnic groups.

Fifth of all, the customs, the religious beliefs and the languages and their characters of labourers of all ethnic groups are all protected by law according to itself. Xinjiang strictly implements the laws and regulations such as the Constitution of the People's Republic of China, the Law of the People's Republic of China on Ethnic Regional Autonomy, the Law of the People’s Republic of China on General Language and Characters, and the Regulations on Religious Affair. We fully respect and guarantee the freedom of religious belief of workers of all ethnic groups, and no organization or individual shall interfere. While promoting the national common language and characters according to law, we fully respect and guarantee the rights of minority workers to use the language and characters of their own, and the workers can choose which language and characters to use for communication. We should fully respect the customs of workers of all ethnic groups and actively create a good working and living environment.

Xinjiang's labor and employment security and its practice are in line with China's constitution and laws, international labor and human rights standards, and the strong desire of the people of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang to live a better life. It benefits the people's livelihood, follows the people's will, and wins the people's support. It can fully stand the test of the whole world.

Xu Guixiang: Thank you, Arkin Shamshaq. Today, we have invited Akbar Turahun of Huafu Color Spinning Co,Ltd. in Aksu to give an introduction of the company.

Akbar Turahun speaks at the 10th Press conference on Xinjiang-related Issues in Beijing, June 3,2021.Photo by Xinjiang Daily/ Zhou Peng

Akbar Turahun: Hello, everyone. My name is Akbar Turahun. I'm a spinning worker of Huafu Color Spinning Co,Ltd. in Aksu.

One day in 2016, a relative of my family told my mother that Huafu was recruiting. Early the next morning, I went for an interview. During the interview, the personnel director of the company introduced in detail to me a series of company systems, such as working hours, salary, rest and vacation, and also inquired about my work intention. After consideration, I signed a labor contract with the company and successfully joined the company.

After arriving at the company, I studied with my master carefully. Seeing that I quickly mastered the technology, the monitor and workshop leaders said that I was a good talent for working in the spinning industry. I was more motivated to hear their affirmation of me. In 2018, after nearly two years of work, I not only got a raise in salary, but also was promoted to be the monitor.

Besides working, I am also very satisfied with the living conditions of the company. The company respects the customs and habits of our ethnic minority employees. It provides us with halal food, sets up reasonable menu which has a complete range of choices. The company has provided us with free accommodation, husband-and-wife room for husband and wife workers. The dormitory has washing space, bathroom, network and other equipment fully provided. The life here is very convenient. During the Spring Festival, the company will also organize literary and artistic activities and sports meetings to enrich our life in spare time.

After working in Huafu Color Spinning Co,Ltd., my life has been significantly changed. In the past, my father and I herded sheep in the mountains to earn money to support our family. The life of our family was very difficult. But now I am an industrial worker and I have found a lover in the company. We can earn more than 8000 yuan a month, and we feel very happy. We are determined to work hard and plan to buy a house near the company in the future to provide better learning and living conditions for our children.

Recently, we have received many foreigners who visit our company, and they have made in-depth exchanges with us. At the end of the visit, they all said that they did not see any "forced labor" in Huafu Color Spinning Co,Ltd. They thought that our employees enjoyed full freedom, good food and accommodation conditions. The employees were all very happy to work and live here, fully enjoying various legal rights.

The Anti-China forces in the United States and the West have imposed sanctions on our company in the name of "forced labor". This is a typical rumor and slander, which has seriously hurt our feelings and damaged our rights and interests. We feel very angry! Under the banner of caring about our Uygur "human rights", they are doing things that violate our labor rights. We will never allow this！

Lies and prejudices cannot cover up the solid facts. No matter how the Anti-China forces in the United States and the West discredit our company, they cannot shake the determination of all our employees, especially the minority employees, to create a better life through hard work. We will work harder to create a more beautiful life!

Let’s watch the following two videos. The first one is about the interviews of the employees of Huafu Color Spinning Co,Ltd. introducing the situation of the company. The second one is about the situation of Pashagul, who's from Wuqia County in Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture, seeking for employment in Guangdong Province.

Xu Guixiang: Thank you all for watching. The above is the relevant content that we wish to introduce to you today. Now, please allow Counselor Bi Haibo to keep on hosting

Bi Haibo: Next, we will begin the section of media questions. Now, first, let's welcome the journalist of Global Times to raise questions.

Global Times: Hello, I have a question. I have watched the two videos just now, and I paid particular attention to the latter one which was about Pashagul, an ethnic minority employee, coming to work in the outer regions. Now there are some discussions in the foreign media that these ethnic minority employees are forced to send to those places, and they have to accept some political censorship. They will also be subject to certain surveillance during their stay there. Is this the case?

Xu Guixiang: This question will be answered by Rahmanjan Dawut.

Rahmanjan Dawut: Just now I mentioned the issue of transfer of employment. As you know, I mentioned the content of transfer of employment just now. Employment is the most effective way to solve poverty. One person's employment often drives the whole family out of poverty. There are also some slogans: "Once a person's employed, his whole family would be removed from poverty". With a stable income, the problem of poverty can be solved.

In order to win the fight against poverty, we have implemented the policy of giving priority to employment. I introduced our measures in terms of employment, constantly expanding the scale of employment, helping people of all ethnic groups to get rid of poverty and increase their income. In these aspects, we have adopted a policy called "transfer employment support", which is an important and effective measure to fight against poverty. Transfer of employment has also been practiced in Xinjiang. The very first problem associated with this is willingness. It's normal to think about making more money. Someone can make more money right there. He wasn't having necessarily higher income by doing some of the original work in the old place, but he could earn more when going out. Some of these people have moved from the South of Xinjiang to the North of it, while some have moved from the North to the South. We have all types of situation here.

As you can see from the video, Pashagul of Wuqia County went to Guangdong from our most western county for employment. Why did they do this? The main reason is very simple. Why is it called transfer of employment? One of reasons is that the poor people have a need and their language communication is inconvenient. So many people think of going out, but they have language barriers. In terms of self-improvement, the people have an urgent need. Many poor people in Xinjiang have never come out. They wish to go to the developed provinces and cities in those provinces to have a look. They can broaden their horizons and learn some skills. Another key problem is to earn money. After coming out, the income is obviously higher than that in the local area or Xinjiang. There exist these two psychologies.

What's more, people are more familiar with the provinces and cities that offer supports to Xinjiang and they will provide more job information as to what kind of enterprises and jobs there could offer. Just now in the video, there are jobs related with shoes and hats, electronics and clothing. I have also seen many of them. I have seen the living conditions of the employees in an electronic assembly factory in Huizhou, Guangdong. At first, the factory wanted a son to be employed, and his father could just pay a visit to him from time to time. After being there, the father took his grandson there, and eventually he took his daughter-in-law to Huizhou. The family worked in that enterprise for several months, and the son's income was higher than that of working at home for a year. Otherwise, the whole family would not go there. There's more money to be earned. He needs to work like this, because it's all labor-intensive and they don't need to be highly skilled. Upon arriving there, the masters would take the new apprentices and then as soon as the language is learned, their skills would be put into practical operations. It's easy to learn in the post. At the same time, they have learned technology and language, broadened our horizons and made money. But, the core is that they have got rich. So this is really effective. These things have helped us to get rid of poverty and become rich. Skills, technology, culture. They have played a vital role in the cultural exchanges among different nationalities.

In a word, we effectively connect the needs of the poor people in Xinjiang with the jobs in other regions of China. This is what the local government introduced to you. Under the guidance of the local government, the public employment service agencies provide information about the job needs. These people go to sign up. You can take jobs in making shoes and hats, as well as electronics. Whichever you'd like to apply for, we'll organize these people to introduce them to those jobs. From our point of view, these aspects are to provide information, what kind of workers to use, what kind of people to need, and how they can go. Our service agencies have received regular demands from other provinces and regions, which are very popular. We have also increased training in this aspect, and we have done this work for farmers at the grass-roots level. Now, the results are very good, and they have played a role in getting rid of poverty. After these comrades go out, some of them have returned and become the backbone and technical personnel in local enterprises. Why do these people want to go? We provide information, and after these people have worked in those enterprises, they come back to talk about how good it is there and how much they earn a month. After coming back, the house situation changed and the mental state changed. Then one takes the other and the other takes another. Everyone goes out together. Our government provides information, and our relevant service agencies in the county give them this information. It really works very well. We have made money, learned technology and learned new culture in terms of poverty alleviation. This is all I want to introduce.

Photo taken on June 3, 2021 shows the 10th Press Conference on Xinjiang-related Issues in Beijing. Photo by Xinjiang Daily/ Zhou Peng

Xu Guixiang: Just now, director Rahmanjan Dawut introduced the organization and the implement of employment transfer to other regions of our county from the perspective of his job, as well as the situation of how it could help with employment.

There are also many ethnic minorities in Xinjiang, especially those in southern Xinjiang, who have a strong desire to go to some places in those regions of our country for employment and work. They have done a very good job in all aspects right there after their arrivals. Just now, Pashagul said in the video that she said, "The 56 nationalities of the entire Chinese nation are a big family. We are one family." I was very moved to hear that. I have done some research in the past. I have been to Shifosi Town of Zhenping county in Nanyang City of Henan Province. There were a lot of people from Xinjiang there, who were mainly the Uygur people in Hotan area. They did jade business there on a very large scale. During my research, I came into contact with a young boss in his twenties. I asked him, "Do you have to adapt after coming from Hotan to Henan?" Then he said, "I have a very good time here. The locals are also very good to me. The local government has also provided us with a lot of thoughtful and meticulous services, and the children's schooling, accommodation and so on are all very good." I still remember that he said, "Sometimes I go to other places to do business from Shifosi town. After a few days, I will wish to go back to Shifosi town and have a desire to go home". After listening to this, I was greatly moved. It is true that the Chinese nation is a big family. It is a big family everywhere in China. Employment is the same everywhere. It enjoys the protection of policies and laws. This is a big family. I think these are beyond reproach.

Recently, we have been constantly introducing this situation to you. I believe that the international community will see more and more clearly the employment situation of Xinjiang and that of the people of all ethnic groups, as well as those in other provinces of China. In Xinjiang, in other provinces of China, there is never "forced labor". So, more and more people are now seeing that this is a lie made by the Western Anti-China forces, and it is a false proposition.

In the face of a large number of facts, we can also see that they are still bent on their own ways and fabricating lies. Their purpose is also very clear, that is, to stir up ethnic relations in Xinjiang and bring Xinjiang back to a state of turbulence. Their intentions are very evil. This is why they seriously violate the facts and insist on their intentions and fundamental purpose of fabricating rumors.

Seeing from another point of view, what about the United States and other western countries? I watched a feature film yesterday. I hope you will have some time to watch it on the Internet. It's not the latest film. It's been called "America, Our story" for some time. It should have been made by an American company. I feel very shocked after watching it. This film tells us that in the development of the western region of the United States at that time, it was necessary to build a railway from the east to the West. Because of the long distance and difficult natural conditions, a large number of Chinese workers were employed. One of the projects was to blow up a section of mountain road and build a tunnel. They made it clear to let the Chinese do it. At that time, the chemical explosives used by the United States were very dangerous; we had to operate with care. As a result, there was an explosion during the operation, and a large number of Chinese workers could not keep up with the speed of explosives. A large number of people were killed, and they were sacrificed on the North American continent.

Blood-stained history like this can be seen everywhere in the history books of the United States. Since the 18th century, with the development of farming in the south of the United States, a large number of black slaves were trafficked from Africa and other places to force them to pick cotton. In this process, many people died and even after they arrived in the United States, many had been sacrificed because of poor conditions. The annual population report issued by the United States itself also admits that there are some serious problems in the United States, such as "forced labour", forced prostitution, debt enslavement and so on. It is the source country, the destination country and the transit country of human trafficking, and even the officials of the United States are involved in the trafficking and "forced labor".

Why do you turn a blind eye to such bad facts? Therefore, I think it is a very bad and immoral act to target at Xinjiang, to slander and attack without considering the facts of Xinjiang, and to turn a blind eye to one's own problems. We strongly condemn the "forced labor" fabricated by the United States and the West in Xinjiang, and will continue to fight back severely! Thank you for your questions. Thank you all for listening.

Bi Haibo: Now, let's continue the questions.

Bloomberg: Thank you, Director Xu. Thank you for sharing. Some of our friends are very interested in transferring jobs. You said that some of our workers have been encouraged to work and live in other provinces. They also encourage their family and friends to work in provinces like Guangdong. So, have they moved there permanently?

Xu Guixiang: Now, please welcome Rahmanjan Dawut to introduce the situation.

Rahmanjan Dawut: From the perspective of government, it's one's own business to choose where he should work. Just now I mentioned that our government would provide job information to the people and they need to sign up for something in the local human talents service institution after that. If they wish to do certain jobs and they can do them well, then we will gather them to make corresponding connections with the employers to provide jobs for them in accordance with their situations

Just now I talked about taking one's family and relatives and friends around him. One can do a job for a long time in one place. He can choose not to do so as well. One signs a labor contract with the enterprise and enjoys family-visiting leave during holidays. Sometimes one may want to work nearby just to earn some money, so he can go back. We didn't completely say that you have to work there, or how long you have to go and can't come back. We don't have such regulations. If someone is willing to work there, we will create conditions and environment for him to help him earn more money and increase his knowledge. That's all I want to say.

Bi Haibo: Next, let's welcome the journalist from People's Daily to raise some questions.

The journalist of People's Daily questioning: I would like to ask: At the Ninth Press Conference on Xinjiang Related Issues held in Beijing, the situation of the so-called special court of Uygur nationality was introduced. It is understood that the so-called court debate will be held tomorrow. What is Xinjiang's response to this?

Xu Guixiang: This issue would be addressed by Elijan Anayat.

Photo taken on June 3, 2021 shows Elijan Anayat, spokesman of People’s Government of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region answers questions at the 10th Press Conference on Xinjiang-related Issues in Beijing. Photo by Xinjiang Daily/ Zhou Peng

Elijan Anayat: On May 25th, we held the Ninth Press Conference on Xinjiang Related Issues in Beijing. We exposed the Uygur special court, which was pieced together by the US, Western Anti-China forces and East Turkistan elements, and the possibility of so-called testimony activities. We clarified our position and attitude, and the media here had also reported the press conference. The contents of the press conference also aroused strong repercussions. Many people said that the so-called Uygur special court is illegal, false and absurd. It is a show and farce, and a serious tease and provocation to international law and rules. It is very ridiculous.

Many people say that there is no "forced labor" in Xinjiang. Some netizens will say that "I have been to Xinjiang, where there is no genocide" in combination with their own personal experiences in Xinjiang. Some netizens also say that "some people have seen the life of the people in Xinjiang is prosperous. They are thus made jealous. They can't stand seeing the people in Xinjiang have a good life."

Here, I solemnly point out that there is no genocide in Xinjiang at all. The so-called genocide and "forced labor" are clear. If the so-called special Uygur court insists on its own way and acts recklessly, we will strongly condemn and resolutely oppose it and fight back!

Bi Haibo: Just now I discussed with Director Xu to allow one more question. Now, please welcome the journalist of South China Morning Post to raise some questions.

South China Morning Post: In the middle of May, the countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany and Turkey have all appealed to China to invite the UN Human Rights Commissioner to visit Xinjiang. Does the Xinjiang government have any exchanges with them in this regard? Under what conditions will you accept such an interview? Thank you.

Photo taken on June 3, 2021 shows Xu Guixiang, spokesman of People’s Government of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region answers questions at the 10th Press Conference on Xinjiang-related Issues in Beijing. Photo by Xinjiang Daily/ Zhou Peng

Xu Guixiang: I'll answer this question. First of all, we have expressed some views and opinions on many occasions. Xinjiang is very open. Xinjiang's current ideas and policies, as well as the achievements achieved, are all in place. We can see that there is really nothing to hide, and we do not need or will not do these things. They are all very magnanimous.

Recently, you have also seen through some media reports that many international organizations, international personages, including diplomatic envoys in China, media that many people are now doing on-the-spot investigation and paying visits to Xinjiang. They have also seen the real situation in Xinjiang. Therefore, from our point of view, we are very happy and willing to welcome everyone to pay a visit to Xinjiang, including the EU Commissioner for human rights, which you just mentioned and we mentioned earlier, we have also sent out many invitations through various channels and made some meticulous and thoughtful arrangements. We are looking forward to the EU Commissioner for human rights coming to Xinjiang as soon as possible.

Of course, we hope to look at Xinjiang from the standpoint of objectivity and impartiality. We should also emphasize that we are against the presumption of guilt and intrusive investigation. As we have just emphasized, there is no so-called genocide or "forced labor" in Xinjiang. There is nothing to investigate, let alone a presumption of guilt investigation. Thank you for your question.

Bi Haibo: Thank you all for attending the meeting. The Tenth Press Conference on Xinjiang Related Issues is now ended.