A senior official of the Communist Party of China (CPC) urged the government of Xinjiang to be highly vigilant against splittist activities, infiltration and sabotage during an inspection tour to the region from Jan 24 to 27.

"The development and stability of Xinjiang is important to the development and stability of the whole of China," said Zhou Yongkang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee.

Zhou urged local officials to uphold the great banner of socialism with Chinese characteristics, be guided by Deng Xiaoping Theory and the important thought of the "Three Represents" that says the CPC represents the most advanced productivity and culture in China, as well as the best interests of the overwhelming majority of the Chinese people, and further implement the scientific concept of development.

Calling for crime to be harshly dealt with, and careful investigation and settlement of local disputes and conflicts, he urged the local government to solve contradictions aroused by matters closely related to the life of the people.

The stability of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region should be strongly emphasized and maintained, Zhou said, adding the local government must step up efforts to settle security issues that have long been reported by local people so as to achieve a long-term stability.

Zhou called on local government to redouble its efforts to build infrastructure, education and cultural facilities.

Housing, healthcare, education, employment and basic living insurance of all people in Xinjiang, regardless of nationality, should be well maintained.

Braving snow, he held doorstep talks with local people and extended his festival greetings on behalf of the CPC Central Committee and State Council. During the trip, he visited Hotan, the Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture of Bayingolin, the Kazak Autonomous Prefecture of Ili and Urumqi and talked to veteran Party members, model workers, low-income families, oil field workers, soldiers and police.

(Xinhua News Agency January 28, 2008)