China’s Military Expansion in Xinjiang Alarms Uyghur Leader Salih Hudayar
China has been increasing its military presence in Xinjiang to assert control over the region. Uyghur leader Salih Hudayar revealed that over 360 military installations, including airbases and heliports, have been built. Recent reports show ongoing construction of barracks and training facilities. Geopolitical analyses from the United States Department of Defence and global think tanks view these developments as part of China’s larger strategy.
Statements from Salih Hudayar
Salih Hudayar, Foreign Affairs and Security Minister of the East Turkistan Government in Exile, stated, “The Chinese invaders have built over 360 military installations, including airbases and heliports, across occupied East Turkistan, not even counting China’s PAP and XPCC bases. This overwhelming military presence isn’t a demonstration of power–it’s a glaring admission of fear.”
He further added, “Beijing’s desperate attempts to maintain its occupation reveal deep anxiety about losing their grip on East Turkistan, the Achilles’ heel of their empire. The massive military, paramilitary, and police presence, along with their ongoing campaign to annihilate the East Turkistani people, expose China’s profound vulnerability and fear of resistance.”
Background on East Turkistan
East Turkistan, also known as the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, is home to the Uyghurs and other predominantly Muslim ethnic groups. The East Turkistan Government in Exile was established on September 14, 2004, in Washington, DC, led by Anwar Yusuf Turani.
Human Rights Concerns
The situation in Xinjiang has been marked by significant geopolitical tensions and human rights concerns. The Chinese government has implemented policies aimed at assimilating and controlling the Uyghur population, including strict surveillance, cultural and religious repression, forced labour programs, and mass internment camps termed “re-education centres.”
Chinese authorities justify these actions as necessary for countering terrorism and maintaining stability. However, the international community, including human rights organisations and several Western governments, has condemned China’s policies in Xinjiang, citing reports of human rights abuses, forced labour, arbitrary detention, and cultural suppression.