CPC publicity head stresses patriotism in Xinjiang

BEIJING, Sept. 14 -- Liu Qibao, head of the publicity department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, stressed promotion of patriotism in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

During his inspection tour in Xinjiang from Saturday to Monday, Liu visited the regional capital Urumqi as well as cities of Hotan and Shihezi.

Liu urged local governments to increase people's awareness of the Party's policies on ethnic minorities and religion, build people's identification with the country, its cultural traditions as well as socialism with Chinese characteristics.

More resources should be channeled to public cultural services in Xinjiang, such as radio, cable TV and libraries, Liu said.

He promised to direct more government resources in building village cultural centers, translation of literature into ethnic minority languages as well traditional culture protection.

He also said that people of ethnic minorities should preserve the best part of their traditional culture and encouraged to embrace modern civilization.

This year is the 60th anniversary of the founding of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.