Pakistan-Based Businessmen Criticized for Backing Chinese Policies in Xinjiang Amid International Outcry

A delegation of Pakistan-based businessmen praised Chinese policies in Xinjiang after an eight-day trip, drawing condemnation from Uyghur activists. Critics accuse the group of ignoring human rights abuses against Uyghurs and parroting Chinese propaganda. The move has sparked outrage among the global Uyghur community.

A recent trip to Xinjiang by a group of 10 Pakistan-based businessmen has ignited controversy, as they returned lauding Beijing's policies. The eight-day visit, backed by the Chinese government, was reported by the Radio Free Asia, a US government-funded news outlet.

The businessmen, many of whom are ethnic Uyghurs, face backlash for ignoring China's harsh treatment of Uyghurs. Reports claim around 1.8 million Uyghurs are detained in camps disguised as job training facilities. Despite this, the delegation echoed Beijing's narrative of a peaceful and prosperous Uyghur community.

Photos and videos from the trip, which occurred from August 20, show businessmen in traditional Uyghur attire participating in state-organized events and raising Chinese flags. Their social media posts proclaimed that Muslims in Xinjiang are living happily, a statement that activists say misrepresents the harsh reality.

This visit is part of China's ongoing effort to project a benign image of its Xinjiang policies by inviting delegations from Muslim-majority countries. Notably, this is the first visit from a foreign delegation of ethnic Uyghurs from a Muslim-majority country.

Omer Khan, founder of the Pakistan-based Omer Uyghur Trust, voiced his disappointment, accusing the delegation of remaining silent due to benefits from the Chinese consulate. The Ex-Chinese Association Pakistan, established in 2007, has also faced criticism for its perceived complicity.

Uyghur communities in Pakistan and abroad express their outrage, as many families remain stateless and cut off from their relatives in Xinjiang. Activists continue to call for justice and accountability, condemning those who support China's narrative, whether through silence or active endorsement.

(With inputs from agencies.)