Neighbors build bonds of friendship and prosperity in Xinjiang village

Originally from Henan province, Zhou brings extensive farming experience to the community. He helped Ablikim buy a corn planter, and whenever Zhou is busy, Ablikim Musa steps in to help him with farm work.

Ablikim said, "We are just like brothers." The two neighbors frequently exchange farming tips and visit each other's homes.

They are among the 18 households on "pomegranate alley", which is home to equal numbers of Uygur and Han residents, according to Xatgul Rahman, secretary of the Daxi village Party committee.

Xatgul said the alley is a microcosm of ethnic unity in the region, where residents from different backgrounds not only live side by side but are also closely connected. Residents also celebrate festivals together, she added.

Several villagers have also taken to livestreaming to promote and sell local specialty products, including fragrant pears, red dates, white apricots, honey and raisins.

Wang Xiaohong, president of the Yuli county e-commerce association, has been selling local products online since 2015. She now leads a group of local women in livestreaming sales, helping them increase their household incomes.

"We have abundant resources here," she said. "As long as you work hard, you can build a prosperous life."