Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, situated in the northeastern part of China, is the largest provincial administrative region in terms of area in China. Xinjiang boasts vast territory, rich resources and unique and splendid natural landscape, with both the icy mountains and the flaming mountain, and neighbored with vast lakes and green oasis. Once as the crucial passage of ancient Silk Road and at present as the pylon of the second continent bridge connecting Asia and Europe, Xinjiang enjoys fast social and economic development. In the past thousands of years, various ethnic groups in Xinjiang have created a rich and unique Xinjiang ethnic culture through their hard work and wisdom.

On the occasion of 50th anniversary of the founding of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the Ministry of Culture of China, with the expectation of further strengthening cultural exchange and cooperation between China and gulf Arabian countries and promoting the friendship between the peoples, plans to hold Gulf China's Cultural Week in Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain from November 19 to December 4, 2005. During that period, Xinjiang Government will hold Gulf China's Cultural Week & Xinjiang Cultural Festival in United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain, which will serve as a bridge to enhance the understanding and friendship between China Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and gulf countries.

Culture is the best channel to connect the hearts of peoples. The culture of Xinjiang, China and the Islamic culture of gulf countries, while sharing the similar origins, also enjoy their own national artistic features. It is the common aspiration of our peoples to emphasize and strengthen the intercultural exchanges. I sincerely wish that China's Cultural Week & Xinjiang Cultural Festival a complete success.

Kurax Mahesut
Vice Chairman of China Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region