The Chinese state has existed on earth for several millennia, during which time its borders have repeatedly changed, as have the countries surrounding it. New territorial acquisitions opened the way for China to influence in other regions neighboring it. Such an acquisition was for China and Xinjiang (translated from Chinese - "new border"), the final control over which China established in the 19th century, on November 18, 1884, proclaiming the formation of a new province. Although the new territories were of little economic value as the area was significantly remote from Beijing and much of it lay in a desert climate, its geopolitical importance was immense as it opened the way for China to Central Asia. Until now, Xinjiang is China's "window" to the region.