东西问｜宋周莺：新疆丝绸之路经济带核心区建设成效几何？

Core Insights - Xinjiang plays a crucial role as a key hub in the Belt and Road Initiative, serving as a gateway and platform for connecting Asia and Europe [1][2][5] Group 1: Economic Cooperation - Xinjiang is an important platform for economic cooperation, enhancing practical collaboration with Central Asia, West Asia, and South Asia in sectors like energy, agriculture, manufacturing, and digital economy [2][6] - The region is forming a regional international trade center and industrial cooperation hub, with continuous improvements in customs facilitation and market access [2][6] Group 2: Infrastructure Development - Xinjiang has developed a comprehensive transportation network, including highways, railways, and pipelines, significantly enhancing cross-border logistics efficiency [1][5][6] - Major infrastructure projects like the G218 highway and the expansion of Urumqi Tian Shan International Airport have strengthened Xinjiang's position as a transportation and trade center [5][6] Group 3: Cultural Exchange - Xinjiang serves as a vital window for cultural exchange, hosting various events that promote cooperation in tourism, education, healthcare, and technology with neighboring countries [2][5] Group 4: Trade Growth - In 2024, Xinjiang's total import and export volume reached $61.165 billion, with a growing proportion of technology-intensive products [6] - The trade structure is evolving, with Urumqi and Ili expanding their trade scales, while Kashgar experiences the fastest growth rate [6] Group 5: Strategic Role in Central Asia - Xinjiang has transformed from a border region to a regional cooperation center, becoming a key platform for China-Central Asia interactions [9][10] - The region is recognized as a "golden passage" for connectivity with Central Asia, facilitating trade and investment through various new business models [9][10][15] Group 6: Belt and Road Initiative Impact - The China-Europe (Central Asia) freight trains have seen significant growth, with over 110,000 trains operated by mid-2025, supported by enhanced infrastructure and customs efficiency [13][15] - Xinjiang is actively diversifying freight train routes and developing new models like "train + trade" and "train + e-commerce" to meet international transport demands [15]