The Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) of China is a strategically important, but at the same time problematic region. Its geographical location makes the region important for the implementation of many of China's political initiatives, but cultural contradictions in the region create serious challenges. The relevance of the research topic is due to the growing importance of Xinjiang in the realities of political relations, not only with neighboring Central Asia, but also with the entire bloc of Western democratic countries. The focus of the study is on political aspects and their impact on the country's domestic and foreign policies. The study analyzes the geopolitical significance of the region for China, emphasizing its strategic location and its role as a transport hub, and reveals complex ethnic and religious contradictions that cause serious concerns for the government. Attention is paid to the diplomatic consequences of China's tough approach to the XUAR, including friction with the West and the impact on the implementation of the Belt and Road initiative. The study uses methods of historical and political analysis, content analysis of official documents and statistics, and comparative analysis to compare policies towards Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities. The analysis shows that the region is a strategically important region for China for a number of reasons. Its geographical location on the border with Central Asia makes it a vital link in China’s ambitious political plans. At the same time, the ethnic diversity of the region creates serious internal challenges for China and requires constant resource expenditure. Tight control over the XUAR, in turn, causes sharp criticism from Western countries, undermining China’s image. The results of this study may be useful in developing further strategic decisions regarding political relations with China and for understanding the motives of China’s policy towards the XUAR.