Shen Yueyue, vice-chairwoman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), led a democratic oversight inspection in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region from July 15 to 19, focusing on desertification control efforts and development of key ecological projects such as the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program.

The inspection team visited the cities of Urumqi, Hotan and Kashgar to examine local efforts in sand prevention and control, as well as ecological restoration and protection. They met with local officials, conducted field research and engaged directly with local residents. As part of a public service initiative, the team members also promoted science-based sand control methods and donated educational materials to frontline workers and technicians.

The team commended Xinjiang's achievements in combating desertification, especially the successful completion of the "edge-locking" project around the Taklimakan Desert. They highlighted the dedication and perseverance of local officials and residents of all ethnic groups who have participated in these efforts.

The team emphasized the strategic importance of the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program and called for enhanced political awareness and policy coordination. They stressed the need to uphold the principle of planting greenery according to water availability, pursue targeted interventions as well as systematic governance, and promote integrated protection of mountains, rivers, forests, farmland, lakes, grasslands and deserts. Scientific precision, region-specific strategies and sustainability were underscored as essential to ensuring the long-term success of these projects.

The team also called for stronger interdepartmental coordination and greater alignment between desertification control and local economic development, and encouraged broader grassroots participation. 

Recognizing the CPPCC's unique role, the team emphasized the importance of building consensus, offering practical policy recommendations and contributing wisdom and strength to building a strong ecological security barrier in northern China.