A Date with China – Meet Xinjiang’ intl media tour kicks off in Urumqi

The 2026 A Date with China: Meet Xinjiang international media tour has officially commenced in Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, aiming to build bridges for cross-cultural storytelling. This year’s delegation comprises 16 foreign participants from 13 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Pakistan. They are joined by Chinese reporters from major media outlets, forming a diverse international media corps.

The event brings together an international delegation of journalists, experts, social media influencers, and Gen Zers to experience Xinjiang’s development and cultural dynamism firsthand. To mark the beginning of the event, a flag-handover ritual was performed, and participants expressed keen interest in experiencing Xinjiang’s unique culture and history.

• The tour group will travel through Urumqi and Changji Hui autonomous prefecture, focusing on key sectors such as technological innovation and Silk Road culture.
• The journey is designed to uncover compelling narratives and present an authentic and panoramic view of Xinjiang’s development and charm.
• The A Date with China series has hosted hundreds of international guests from over 40 countries and regions, visiting more than 500 locations across the country.
• The initiative continues to bridge distances, capturing and sharing China’s contemporary beauty and dynamic spirit with the world through a multilingual and integrated media approach.

Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Media Tour

Thomas Jay Hopkins, an American expert with China Daily Website, said “This is his first time in Xinjiang, and he had heard it’s a unique place with a long and rich history”, expressing his eagerness to learn about the region’s distinctive culture. His sentiment was echoed by many in the international delegation, who are keen to experience Xinjiang’s development and cultural dynamism.

Meet the Delegation: International Participants

The international delegation includes participants from 13 countries, including Russia, Algeria, Serbia, Ukraine, India, Brazil, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Pakistan. They will be joined by Chinese reporters from major media outlets such as China Daily Website, China National Radio Online, and Global Times.

Cross-Cultural Storytelling and Media Exchange

The A Date with China series aims to build bridges for cross-cultural storytelling, bringing together international and Chinese media professionals to share experiences and perspectives. Through this initiative, participants can learn about China’s contemporary beauty and dynamic spirit, and share their own stories and cultures with the world. For more information, visit Watan News to stay up-to-date on the latest developments.