Xi Jinping Pushes for Wider Mandarin Use in Border Regions

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for broader use of Mandarin in border areas, urging deeper ethnic integration. Speaking at a Politburo session, Xi emphasized promoting Mandarin and central textbooks to strengthen national unity, according to People's Daily. His remarks heighten concerns among ethnic minorities about losing their native languages and cultures. Regions like Tibet, Xinjiang, and Inner Mongolia have seen protests against similar policies. Critics argue these efforts erode cultural identities, while Beijing maintains they foster national cohesion. China aims for 85% nationwide Mandarin proficiency by 2025, including 80% in rural areas.