Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM)

Description

The Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM), a small Islamic extremist group based in China’s western Xinjiang Province, is one of the most militant of the ethnic Uighur separatist groups pursuing an independent “Eastern Turkistan,” which would include Turkey, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Xinjiang. ETIM and other overlapping militant Uighur groups are linked to the international mujahidin movement— and to a limited degree al-Qaida—beginning with the participation of ethnic Uighur mujahidin in the Soviet/Afghan war.

Activities

US and Chinese Government information suggests ETIM was responsible for terrorist acts inside and outside China. Most recently, in May 2002, two ETIM members were deported to China from Kyrgyzstan for plotting to attack the US Embassy in Kyrgyzstan as well as other US interests abroad.

Strength

Unknown. Only a small minority of ethnic Uighurs supports the Xinjiang independence movement or the formation of an East Turkistan.

Location

Xinjiang Province and neighboring countries in the region.

External Aid

ETIM is suspected of having received training and financial assistance from al-Qaida.