China celebrates the 60th founding anniversary of the Xizang Autonomous Region in the southwest. Today's grand gathering in Lhasa highlights Xizang's achievements and progress. From a once isolated plateau to a thriving region with a vastly improved quality of life for over 3.7 million people. CGTN's Zheng Yibing reports from Lhasa.

Some 20,000 people gathered in Potala Palace Square for a grand ceremony marking the 60th anniversary of the Xizang Autonomous Region.

Chinese President Xi Jinping led a central delegation to the event, underscoring the strong commitment to Xizang and the central government's sincere care for cadres and people of all ethnic groups in the region.

A congratulatory letter was read, celebrating six decades of remarkable development and prosperity in Xizang, and expressing good wishes for even greater achievements ahead.

Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and head of the central delegation, presented a commemorative plaque to the region and delivered a speech.

An official from the Xizang Autonomous Region expressed heartfelt gratitude to the central government, along with firm confidence in the region's continued development.

Representatives of the region also made speech during the event.

DROLMA RENZIN Xizang Resident Representative "I myself have experienced the historical transition of Xizang from a people under feudalism to becoming their own masters. The change in my own destiny is a picture of Xizang's rebirth. Not long after the founding of the autonomous region, with the support and care of the government, my wishes were answered. Since then, I have been full of passion, driven by the special care of the party central committee, spreading the stories of how it has brought happiness and sweetness to tens of thousands of households in Xizang."

Later, a spectacular float parade took place along the main street in Lhasa. The floats showcased achievements and developments made across Xizang's seven prefecture-level administrative areas.

ZHENG YIBING Lhasa, Xizang Autonomous Region "Now, with a comprehensive strategy from the central government that focuses on stability, development, ecology and border-area consolidation, it is believed that Xizang will continue to achieve steady progress as well as tangible benefits for all. Zheng Yibing, CGTN, in Lhasa, Xizang Autonomous Region."