Pakistani academic and author Ayesha Alam has documented her experiences in China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in her newly published book, Xinjiang: A Journey of Dreams in the Embrace of Mountains.
The book explores the region’s Islamic heritage, cultural identity and economic development, drawing on Alam’s visits to different parts of Xinjiang in June 2026.
Alam heads the Department of Pakistan Studies at Hazara University in Mansehra. During her visit, she explored traditional markets, historic sites, educational institutions and local streets to gain firsthand insight into the region’s culture and changing landscape.
Book Explores Xinjiang’s Islamic Heritage
Speaking to Gwadar Pro, Alam said the book covers Xinjiang’s historic streets and bustling bazaars in Kashgar, along with its mosques, Islamic architecture and museums.
A significant part of the publication focuses on Muslim communities, their cultural traditions and everyday lives. Through her observations, Alam aims to help readers understand the region beyond media headlines by examining its people, institutions and communities.
The book connects Xinjiang’s historical legacy with its contemporary identity, offering readers an account based on the author’s personal experiences and observations.
Xinjiang’s Modern Development and Regional Importance
Alongside its cultural and historical themes, the book examines developments in education, science, technology, healthcare and the economy.
It also highlights Xinjiang’s geographical position and its growing importance as a link between China, Central Asia and other parts of the world.
By discussing infrastructure, economic activity and educational development alongside local traditions, the publication presents a picture of a region balancing its cultural heritage with contemporary change.
Relevance to Pakistan-China Relations
For Pakistani readers, the book offers a perspective on a region connected to Pakistan-China relations, cultural exchange and regional cooperation.
Alam’s account combines travel observations with historical and contemporary themes, aiming to bring readers closer to Xinjiang’s communities, heritage and development.
The publication also contributes to wider discussions about cultural connections and the role of regional knowledge in strengthening understanding between Pakistan and China.
Ayesha Alam’s Previous Publications on China
Alam has previously written about China’s economic development and Pakistan-China relations.
Her earlier works include Under the Shadow of Himalayas: Pak-China Relations, Opportunities and Challenges and its Roman Urdu version, Himalaya Ke Saaye Talay: Pak-China Dosti Ka Safar.
She has also authored Global Dragon: Perspectives on China’s Economic Surge, which examines China’s economic rise.
The Urdu version of her latest book, Xinjiang: Paharon Ki Aaghosh Mein Khwabon Ka Safar, further extends her work on the region’s cultural heritage and contemporary life.
Through these publications, Alam continues to explore China’s development, bilateral relations and cultural links between the two countries. Her latest work draws on firsthand observations to present readers with a closer look at Xinjiang’s people, traditions and evolving landscape.
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