Abstract: The modernization of the frontier ethnic areas is an issue of overall, fundamental and strategic importance as it is related to the unity and prosperity of the ethnic groups, the harmony and happiness of the people, and the long-term stability of the country. Frontier ethnic areas are not only an important field for solidifying the consciousness of community for the Chinese nation, but also a forefront to highlight the effectiveness of modernization and ethnic work. Solidifying the consciousness of community for the Chinese nation injects strong spiritual impetus into the modernization of frontier ethnic areas and promoting the modernization of frontier ethnic areas lays a solid foundation for fostering the consciousness of community for the Chinese nation. The two are dialectically inter-structured. Facing the risks of domestic economic development, ethnic issues, social governance and international challenges, we must consolidate the foundation of economic, political, cultural, social and ecological community in a targeted manner, so as to more effectively promote the modernization process of border ethnic areas and solidify the consciousness of community for the Chinese nation, and ultimately realize the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation that includes the people of all ethnic groups in China.

Key words: frontier ethnic area, modernization, forging a strong consciousness of community for the Chinese nation