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In response to a foreign media inquiry regarding the impact on Xinjiang's economy and employment after the US in recent years placed over 140 Chinese companies on its entity list under the so-called US Xinjiang-related sanctions, Chen Weijun, a member of the Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Regional Committee and executive vice chairman of Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, noted that the US' unreasonable sanctions, under the pretext of "protecting human rights," violate the employment rights of Xinjiang workers. If there is any coercion, it is the US that is engaging in it — coercing unemployment.

Chen stressed that there is no form of so-called "forced labor" in Xinjiang. Workers of all ethnic groups seek a better life voluntarily and freely, and their labor rights and interests are fully protected, said Chen.

Chen noted that, in the short term, US sanctions may have some negative effects on Xinjiang's economic development, such as obstacles to product exports, losses for enterprises, a reduction in production capacity, and fewer employment opportunities for workers of all ethnic groups, including Uygurs.

"We have the steadiness to withstand all winds and the courage to see clearly despite obstacles. US sanctions cannot stop Xinjiang's development, nor can they halt the growth and expansion of our enterprises or industries," Chen said.

Global Times