Xinjiang workers share stories to refute 'forced labor' slur

URUMQI -- Workers from technology companies in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region shared their personal stories of how their work has led to a happy life, denouncing lies of "forced labor" in the region at a symposium Thursday.

"By learning knowledge and skills, many farmers like me have become workers, changed our fate, and realized our dreams of getting rich," said Hekiram Rahinm, director of the production department of the Xinjiang Chengrun Jinlan biotechnology company.

Hekiram Rahinm graduated from Urumqi Vocational University in 2017, majoring in enterprise management. He was a quick learner and, and was promoted soon after entering the company. He now earns a monthly salary of 7,600 yuan ($1,194).

Bulal graduated from Xinjiang Industry Technical College and majored in chemical equipment maintenance. After entering the Xinjiang Blue Ridge Tunhe Polyester Co., Ltd. for a little over one year, he was promoted to the inspection team head of the quality management department.

His living conditions are getting better and better, and he has bought an apartment in Changji City. "My next goal is to become a sales engineer. I'm very confident," he said.

Tajigul Abdumijit works at a technology company in the comprehensive bonded area in Kashgar Prefecture. Her annual income is about 70,000 yuan.

"With a stable job and income, I'm able to share some burdens for my family, and we're living a happy life," she said. She added that her family was full of hope for the future. Her parents have built a new house with orchards and breeding sheds and bought new household appliances and modern agricultural machinery and tools.