The month-long Tibet Matters March that began on April 29 is close to its culmination on May 23. The march, organised by the Tibetan Youth Congress, may end next week but the struggle of Tibetans against China’s decades-long oppression doesn’t end here. However, this march will start an even stronger campaign against China that will help in echoing the Tibet issue.

WION spoke to the President of the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC), Gonpo Dhundup. Dhundup is leading this month-long march undeterred even amid the heavy rainfall, with 80 other volunteers from the regional chapters of TYC in India and Nepal.&nbsp;

<h2>Significance of the timing of the Tibet Matters March</h2>

The Tibet Matters March began on April 29 in Sikkim’s Gangtok and will end on May 23 in Assam’s Tezpur. The date and time of the march hold a significant meaning.&nbsp;

On April 29 in 1998, the Tibetan Freedom Struggle in exile attained a major milestone when Pawo Thupten Ngodup self-immolated to protest against the lack of international attention and support for the suffering of Tibetans and the freedom of Tibet. Since then, this day is observed as Tibetan Martyr Day to commemorate the sacrifice of Pawo Thupten.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-hiroshima-communique-skips-use-of-term-global-south-594408">G7 Hiroshima communique skips use of term 'Global South'</a>

May 23 marks another important event; it is the day when His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama internationally repudiated the 17-point agreement at Tezpur. The 17-point agreement was a document pertaining to the status of Tibet within the People’s Republic of China. It was signed between the Central People’s Government and the Tibetan government on May 23, 1951.&nbsp;

The 14th Dalai Lama ratified the agreement in the form of a telegraph on October 24, 1951. However, the 14th Dalai Lama repudiated the agreement nearly eight years later on April 18, 1959, when he issued a statement declaring that the agreement was made under duress.

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Day 18 of the TYC ‘Tibet Matters March’ started with a heavy rainfall but we are unstoppable. The participants are determined to continue despite the challenges. 
No matter how difficult the circumstances maybe, we will resist and overcome. We won’t stop until Tibet is free. <a href="https://t.co/MVPVXFEZDb">pic.twitter.com/MVPVXFEZDb</a>
— Gonpo Dhundup (@tamogondup) <a href="https://twitter.com/tamogondup/status/1658326144821895170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Furthermore, the “particular date and place are outlined to send a clear and concrete message to the G20 leaders that China’s ‘diplomatic assurances’ are not to be trusted’, said Gonpo Dhundup.&nbsp;

“We have been organising this March after a long Covid-19 gap and it’s significant amidst the continuous implementation of expansionist policies by the Chinese communist regime.”

<h2>Tibetan youth has contributed to Tibet’s cause</h2>

China in the past has tried to create a rift among the Tibetans, especially among the youth through various methods. Either through Chinese agents’ infiltration into the community or through the hackers who spread misinformation on social media, China has tried every tactic to mislead Tibetans.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Tibet Matters march | Tibet's fight against China

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But it has not succeeded in this objective, said Dhundup. “So far, Tibetan youth in every corner of the world are actively involved in the Tibetan movement, and we hope that they will continue to engage in activism work. I don’t think China’s effort to eradicate Tibetan culture and identity has something to do with Tibetan youth.”

“It is because of the numbness of the international community, they have been a silent spectator of a cultural genocide. It’s the responsibility of every one of us to keep alive the culture that can contribute to the world's peace and harmony,” he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Tibet Matters March: A wake-up call for India?</h2>

Tibet was invaded by China in 1949. Since then, over 1.2 million out of 6 million Tibetans have been killed, over 600 monasteries have been destroyed and thousands of Tibetans have been imprisoned.&nbsp;

Tibetan people have taken refuge in many countries, including India and the world has also aided Tibet in voicing its issues at international forums.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-to-boycott-g20-meet-in-indias-j-k-saudi-arabia-egypt-turkey-skip-registration-594356">China to boycott G20 meet in India’s J-K; Saudi Arabia, Egypt &amp; Turkey skip registration</a>

As India shares its border with China, it becomes even more important for the Indian leadership to resolve the issue. Dhundup affirms that this march may be seen as a wake-up call for India.&nbsp;

“Many countries are adopting resolutions in support of the Tibetan cause, and our March might be a call for Indian leadership to take a firm stand on the Tibet issue, which will have a long-time national security benefit to India. India has been there with us from the beginning and we have high hope that the Indian government will play a significant role in resolving the Sino-Tibet conflict, “he said.&nbsp;

On May 19, the Tibet Matters March reached its Day 20 and left from Nagaon at 5 am IST. Although it rained heavily on the way, the volunteers were dedicated to continuing the March. After walking for 25 km, the volunteers reached Samaguri, Assam.

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The month-long Tibet Matters March that began on April 29 is close to its culmination on May 23. The march, organised by the Tibetan Youth Congress, may end next week but the struggle of Tibetans against China’s decades-long oppression doesn’t end here.

The month-long Tibet Matters March that began on April 29 is close to its culmination on May 23. The march, organised by the Tibetan Youth Congress, may end next week but the struggle of Tibetans against China’s decades-long oppression doesn’t end here. However, this march will start an even stronger campaign against China that will help in echoing the Tibet issue. WION spoke to the President of the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC), Gonpo Dhundup. Dhundup is leading this month-long march undeterred even amid the heavy rainfall, with 80 other volunteers from the regional chapters of TYC in India and Nepal. Significance of the timing of the Tibet Matters March The Tibet Matters March began on April 29 in Sikkim’s Gangtok and will end on May 23 in Assam’s Tezpur. The date and time of the march hold a significant meaning. On April 29 in 1998, the Tibetan Freedom Struggle in exile attained a major milestone when Pawo Thupten Ngodup self-immolated to protest against the lack of international attention and support for the suffering of Tibetans and the freedom of Tibet. Since then, this day is observed as Tibetan Martyr Day to commemorate the sacrifice of Pawo Thupten. Also Read | G7 Hiroshima communique skips use of term 'Global South' May 23 marks another important event; it is the day when His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama internationally repudiated the 17-point agreement at Tezpur. The 17-point agreement was a document pertaining to the status of Tibet within the People’s Republic of China. It was signed between the Central People’s Government and the Tibetan government on May 23, 1951. The 14th Dalai Lama ratified the agreement in the form of a telegraph on October 24, 1951. However, the 14th Dalai Lama repudiated the agreement nearly eight years later on April 18, 1959, when he issued a statement declaring that the agreement was made under duress. Day 18 of the TYC ‘Tibet Matters March’ started with a heavy rainfall but we are unstoppable. The participants are determined to continue despite the challenges. No matter how difficult the circumstances maybe, we will resist and overcome. We won’t stop until Tibet is free. pic.twitter.com/MVPVXFEZDb — Gonpo Dhundup (@tamogondup) May 16, 2023 × Furthermore, the “particular date and place are outlined to send a clear and concrete message to the G20 leaders that China’s ‘diplomatic assurances’ are not to be trusted’, said Gonpo Dhundup. “We have been organising this March after a long Covid-19 gap and it’s significant amidst the continuous implementation of expansionist policies by the Chinese communist regime.” Tibetan youth has contributed to Tibet’s cause China in the past has tried to create a rift among the Tibetans, especially among the youth through various methods. Either through Chinese agents’ infiltration into the community or through the hackers who spread misinformation on social media, China has tried every tactic to mislead Tibetans. Watch | Gravitas: Tibet Matters march | Tibet's fight against China × But it has not succeeded in this objective, said Dhundup. “So far, Tibetan youth in every corner of the world are actively involved in the Tibetan movement, and we hope that they will continue to engage in activism work. I don’t think China’s effort to eradicate Tibetan culture and identity has something to do with Tibetan youth.” “It is because of the numbness of the international community, they have been a silent spectator of a cultural genocide. It’s the responsibility of every one of us to keep alive the culture that can contribute to the world's peace and harmony,” he added. Tibet Matters March: A wake-up call for India? Tibet was invaded by China in 1949. Since then, over 1.2 million out of 6 million Tibetans have been killed, over 600 monasteries have been destroyed and thousands of Tibetans have been imprisoned. Tibetan people have taken refuge in many countries, including India and the world has also aided Tibet in voicing its issues at international forums. Also Read | China to boycott G20 meet in India’s J-K; Saudi Arabia, Egypt & Turkey skip registration As India shares its border with China, it becomes even more important for the Indian leadership to resolve the issue. Dhundup affirms that this march may be seen as a wake-up call for India. “Many countries are adopting resolutions in support of the Tibetan cause, and our March might be a call for Indian leadership to take a firm stand on the Tibet issue, which will have a long-time national security benefit to India. India has been there with us from the beginning and we have high hope that the Indian government will play a significant role in resolving the Sino-Tibet conflict, “he said. On May 19, the Tibet Matters March reached its Day 20 and left from Nagaon at 5 am IST. Although it rained heavily on the way, the volunteers were dedicated to continuing the March. After walking for 25 km, the volunteers reached Samaguri, Assam. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Exclusive: Tibet Matters March a wake-up call for India and world, says TYC president Gonpo Dhundup

Tibetan Uprising Day commemorates the fighting spirit of the people of Tibet against the tyranny and oppression of China. The day remembers the 1959 event when a revolt erupted in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. The initial uprising which started on March 10 was the result of Chinese-Tibetan tensions that further led to anti-Chinese sentiments in the region.&nbsp;

It started as a peaceful protest, which then snowballed into heavy quelling by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), and ended with the escape of the 14th Dalai Lama from Lhasa. This changed the city of Lhasa forever. It was fully captured by Chinese security forces on March 23, 1959, and thousands of Tibetans were killed.&nbsp;

As Tibetans mark the March 10 anniversary of the uprising and observe the day with the Tibetan diaspora, WION spoke to the General Secretary of the Tibetan Youth Congress, Sonam Tsering.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-we-cant-serve-our-family-nation-why-womens-day-held-little-significance-in-afghanistan-570044">Exclusive | 'We can't serve our family, nation': Why Women's Day held little significance in Afghanistan</a>

Tibetan Youth Congress is the largest international pro-independence organisation with more than 30,000 Tibetans as its members. It was founded in October 1970 in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, with the 14th Dalai Lama delivering its inaugural address.&nbsp;

In 2023, China still continue to persecute ‘pure Tibetans’&nbsp;

Ahead of the annual observance of the March 10 uprising, Janet Rice, a Senator in the Australian Parliament presented a report that claimed that the Chinese authorities continue to persecute Tibetans for their culture and beliefs. Even after six decades, in 2023, Chinese authoritarianism over Tibetans, both inside and outside Tibet, is an undeniable fact. And this persecution is not disorganised, but a systematic abuse of power by China.&nbsp;

“The Chinese Communist Regime systematically introduced and implemented many hard-line policies primarily aimed to eliminate Tibetan culture and its identity,” Sonam Tsering told WION.
<img alt="Mr Sonam Tsering " data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8797e3e3-3cf9-43ef-991c-d10e4c585e31" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2845%29_10.jpg" />
“One of them is the colonial Boarding School, and the goal of this school is entirely political. It aims to cut off the students' bond with their families, dissecting their cultures, and instilling new mindsets and agendas of the Chinese Communist Regime. CCP forcefully enrol Tibetan students in colonial boarding schools, where they have no access to Tibetan culture-related curriculum activities,” Sonam said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Why Tibet is China's original laboratory of repression

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According to a report titled ‘Separated from their families, hidden from the World’ by the Tibet Action Institute, nearly one million Tibetan children, aged between 4 to 18 are currently forcibly enrolled in Chinese colonial boarding schools in Tibet, away from their families.&nbsp;

China is trying to create a rift among Tibetans

The Chinese are going the British way and using the old tactic of ‘divide-and-rule’ to create a rift among the Tibetans through various methods.&nbsp;

Sonam said that China is trying all means “either through the Chinese agents’ infiltration into the Tibetan community, or through the spies and hackers who spread misinformation on social media”.&nbsp;

China's fear of Tibetan unity is real, as it tries hard to build a narrative that suits its political purpose. Sonam shared one such false narrative-building practice by the Chinese authorities. During a live webinar by the Tibetan Youth Congress on His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the video was viewed by 10,000 and more than 5,000 comments were received within an hour.
<img alt="Tibetan Youth Congress " data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a22e7f8d-74be-401e-bc0c-05a372e4ee3c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2844%29_10.jpg" />
“Later, with the support of our technical team, we knew that all the negative comments are received from one particular region in China. Therefore, CCP is not only posing a threat to the Tibetan community alone, but they are also posing a cyber security threat to the rest of the world”.&nbsp;

Tibet is Asia’s issue&nbsp;

Whenever we talk about Tibet, it seems like a thing of the past, something that happened in history about which no one talks in 2023.&nbsp;

It might give a perception to some that the world has forgotten the cause of Tibet, but it is very much living, present and ubiquitous. The world might neglect Tibet, but its immediate neighbourhood, Asia is directly affected by Tibet’s sovereignty, Sonam pointed out.&nbsp;

Sonam emphasised that “the future security of many Asian countries lies with the sovereignty of Tibet, whether it’s water security or national security of these nations that China continues to threaten.”&nbsp;

“The independence of Tibet ensures a permanent peace for India and other Asian nations,” he added.&nbsp;

India: Second home for Tibetans&nbsp;

The relations between Tibet and India are as old as the 7th and 8th centuries AD. Scholars like Buton Rinchen Drub have suggested that Tibetans are descendants of Rupati, a Kaurava military general from the historical Kurukshetra War. Another common and one of the most prominent threads between the two regions is the teachings of Buddhism.&nbsp;

But in 1959, when Dalai Lama came to India following the uprising, India became like a second home for Tibetans-in-exile. Talking about India, Sonam said, “Can’t ask more from India, our second home that sheltered us for the last six decades”.&nbsp;
<img alt="Tibet government-in-exile" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="23e9628a-0278-4b1f-9830-0bb84d9a6d37" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2846%29_8.jpg" />
With India’s growing stature on the world stage, it is India’s responsibility to highlight the issue of Tibet and becomes the voice of the people, Sonam said.&nbsp;

“India should lead the other Asian nations in resolving the Sino-Tibet conflict with a firm political stand that benefits the long-term national interest of India and the rest of the South Asian nations.”&nbsp;
<img alt="Tibet government-in-exile" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="87373ac2-de3b-42aa-8950-974fa9bf1033" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2847%29_11.jpg" />
The Sino-Tibet conflict is a matter of India’s permanent peace and to entire region’s stability as well.&nbsp;Sonam reminded us that “Tibet is dying a silent and slow death under China's repressive rule“.&nbsp;

It is hence everyone’s responsibility and the Indian government’s in particular to speak on the current critical situation inside Tibet.&nbsp;

World looks at Tibet as if they are looking at a dragon fruit

On a poignant note, Sonam described what it means to be a Tibetan.&nbsp;“The saddest thing about being a Tibetan refugee is that there is nothing around you that you own, and even the heart deep inside your chest chooses to run away to the homeland every now and then.”&nbsp;

He presented a thought-provoking analogy of how the world looks at Tibet. “The world is looking at Tibet as if they are looking at a dragon fruit. They know the historical status of Tibet and its current critical situation, but they lack the courage to speak up for same. It is as if they avoid eating the flavourful fruit because of the thorns”.&nbsp;

The Tibetan issue is not just about China persecuting Tibetans, it is also about the existence of a buffer state that ensures peace in Asia, pointed out Sonam. Its culture, beliefs and human values are a gift to the entire world, which needs to be preserved.

&nbsp;

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Tibetan Uprising Day commemorates the fighting spirit of the people of Tibet against the tyranny and oppression of China. The day remembers the 1959 event when a revolt erupted in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet.

Tibetan Uprising Day commemorates the fighting spirit of the people of Tibet against the tyranny and oppression of China. The day remembers the 1959 event when a revolt erupted in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. The initial uprising which started on March 10 was the result of Chinese-Tibetan tensions that further led to anti-Chinese sentiments in the region. It started as a peaceful protest, which then snowballed into heavy quelling by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), and ended with the escape of the 14th Dalai Lama from Lhasa. This changed the city of Lhasa forever. It was fully captured by Chinese security forces on March 23, 1959, and thousands of Tibetans were killed. As Tibetans mark the March 10 anniversary of the uprising and observe the day with the Tibetan diaspora, WION spoke to the General Secretary of the Tibetan Youth Congress, Sonam Tsering. Also Read | Exclusive | 'We can't serve our family, nation': Why Women's Day held little significance in Afghanistan Tibetan Youth Congress is the largest international pro-independence organisation with more than 30,000 Tibetans as its members. It was founded in October 1970 in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, with the 14th Dalai Lama delivering its inaugural address. In 2023, China still continue to persecute ‘pure Tibetans’ Ahead of the annual observance of the March 10 uprising, Janet Rice, a Senator in the Australian Parliament presented a report that claimed that the Chinese authorities continue to persecute Tibetans for their culture and beliefs. Even after six decades, in 2023, Chinese authoritarianism over Tibetans, both inside and outside Tibet, is an undeniable fact. And this persecution is not disorganised, but a systematic abuse of power by China. “The Chinese Communist Regime systematically introduced and implemented many hard-line policies primarily aimed to eliminate Tibetan culture and its identity,” Sonam Tsering told WION. “One of them is the colonial Boarding School, and the goal of this school is entirely political. It aims to cut off the students' bond with their families, dissecting their cultures, and instilling new mindsets and agendas of the Chinese Communist Regime. CCP forcefully enrol Tibetan students in colonial boarding schools, where they have no access to Tibetan culture-related curriculum activities,” Sonam said. Watch | Gravitas: Why Tibet is China's original laboratory of repression × According to a report titled ‘Separated from their families, hidden from the World’ by the Tibet Action Institute, nearly one million Tibetan children, aged between 4 to 18 are currently forcibly enrolled in Chinese colonial boarding schools in Tibet, away from their families. China is trying to create a rift among Tibetans The Chinese are going the British way and using the old tactic of ‘divide-and-rule’ to create a rift among the Tibetans through various methods. Sonam said that China is trying all means “either through the Chinese agents’ infiltration into the Tibetan community, or through the spies and hackers who spread misinformation on social media”. China's fear of Tibetan unity is real, as it tries hard to build a narrative that suits its political purpose. Sonam shared one such false narrative-building practice by the Chinese authorities. During a live webinar by the Tibetan Youth Congress on His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the video was viewed by 10,000 and more than 5,000 comments were received within an hour. “Later, with the support of our technical team, we knew that all the negative comments are received from one particular region in China. Therefore, CCP is not only posing a threat to the Tibetan community alone, but they are also posing a cyber security threat to the rest of the world”. Tibet is Asia’s issue Whenever we talk about Tibet, it seems like a thing of the past, something that happened in history about which no one talks in 2023. It might give a perception to some that the world has forgotten the cause of Tibet, but it is very much living, present and ubiquitous. The world might neglect Tibet, but its immediate neighbourhood, Asia is directly affected by Tibet’s sovereignty, Sonam pointed out. Sonam emphasised that “the future security of many Asian countries lies with the sovereignty of Tibet, whether it’s water security or national security of these nations that China continues to threaten.” “The independence of Tibet ensures a permanent peace for India and other Asian nations,” he added. India: Second home for Tibetans The relations between Tibet and India are as old as the 7th and 8th centuries AD. Scholars like Buton Rinchen Drub have suggested that Tibetans are descendants of Rupati, a Kaurava military general from the historical Kurukshetra War. Another common and one of the most prominent threads between the two regions is the teachings of Buddhism. But in 1959, when Dalai Lama came to India following the uprising, India became like a second home for Tibetans-in-exile. Talking about India, Sonam said, “Can’t ask more from India, our second home that sheltered us for the last six decades”. With India’s growing stature on the world stage, it is India’s responsibility to highlight the issue of Tibet and becomes the voice of the people, Sonam said. “India should lead the other Asian nations in resolving the Sino-Tibet conflict with a firm political stand that benefits the long-term national interest of India and the rest of the South Asian nations.” The Sino-Tibet conflict is a matter of India’s permanent peace and to entire region’s stability as well. Sonam reminded us that “Tibet is dying a silent and slow death under China's repressive rule“. It is hence everyone’s responsibility and the Indian government’s in particular to speak on the current critical situation inside Tibet. World looks at Tibet as if they are looking at a dragon fruit On a poignant note, Sonam described what it means to be a Tibetan. “The saddest thing about being a Tibetan refugee is that there is nothing around you that you own, and even the heart deep inside your chest chooses to run away to the homeland every now and then.” He presented a thought-provoking analogy of how the world looks at Tibet. “The world is looking at Tibet as if they are looking at a dragon fruit. They know the historical status of Tibet and its current critical situation, but they lack the courage to speak up for same. It is as if they avoid eating the flavourful fruit because of the thorns”. The Tibetan issue is not just about China persecuting Tibetans, it is also about the existence of a buffer state that ensures peace in Asia, pointed out Sonam. Its culture, beliefs and human values are a gift to the entire world, which needs to be preserved. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tibet is a crucial issue for India, Asia and world, says youth body chief amid uprising anniversary

From conflict with China to Nobel Peace Prize: Journey of the Dalai Lama

Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Tibet from July 21-23 is replete with significance and should be read right for its strategic implications by those entrusted with India’s external affairs, national security and defence.

How New Delhi views this landmark visit to the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) by a Chinese president—the first since President Jiang Zemin’s visit in 1990—needs to be adequately articulated to enable an informed understanding of what it means in the context of the current impasse in eastern Ladakh between the armed forces of the two Asian giants.

Surprisingly, so far, there has been no studied response from the Government of India or the community of strategic affairs ‘experts’ who speak up for the establishment.

President Xi’s visit to the strategically important TAR was unannounced and kept secret until it had concluded. Whether this was out of consideration to the sensitivities of TAR, the region or the ‘international community’, or all three remains a matter of conjecture. The fact is that the visit has meaning and messages for all three.

Official reports said Xi’s visit—the first since he became president in 2013—was to mark the 70th anniversary of the “peaceful liberation of Tibet”.

He had last visited Tibet in 2011, as vice president, for the 60th anniversary of Tibet’s “liberation”. He flew directly to Nyingchi, the border town close to India’s Arunachal Pradesh, and then to Lhasa by the bullet train operating since June 25.

Xi, who is also Chairman of the Central Military Commission, had a meeting with top military officials in Lhasa and troops stationed in Tibet. According to state-owned media, he exhorted the forces to “fully strengthen the work of training soldiers and war preparation” and “promote long-term stability and prosperity of Tibet”.

A cursory reading of Xi’s utterances on his visit to TAR suggest that his messaging is intended as much for Tibet and Tibetans as for for India and the “international community”.

Although Beijing is in full political and military control of TAR, all the Tibetans are not entirely reconciled to this. Within TAR, Tibetans enjoy the fruits of economic and social development but feel the absence of both religious and political freedom.

During a visit to Lhasa, I found that Tibetans from India had returned to TAR because, despite the absence of political freedoms, life and living conditions for them and their families were better in China.

They found well-paying jobs, enjoyed a higher standard of living than say, for example, in India, had the benefits of social security, health care and good education and were generally secure. While consoling themselves that they were fortunate to be in Tibet, they were deeply pained by the Dalai Lama being in exile from his land.

What makes it worse is the absence of any space whatsoever to&nbsp;express this anguish over the absence of their God-King from the land of his birth; which keeps them acutely aware at all times of their lack of political freedom.

Many young Tibetans, who see “Free Tibet” as an elusive goal, have become realistic enough to pursue practical options for a better life, be it in TAR, elsewhere in China, India or the West. China’s success in “persuading” many young Tibetans to join the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) underscores the pragmatism of the recruits and their acceptance of a life choice that was unthinkable for Tibetans a few decades ago.

The conspicuous recruitment of Tibetans amidst heightened PLA activity on the other side of the 3488-km border from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh suggests a hardening of Beijing’s political and military stand.

Even if this be posturing, that it should come days ahead of the upcoming 12th round of corps commander-level talks (likely before mid-August) does not bode well for de-escalation of the prevalent India-China military tensions in eastern Ladakh, which have persisted in the aftermath of the Galwan clashes in June&nbsp;2020.

Therein lies a taunting message to the West: that these countries failed to live up to New Delhi’s expectations of rallying behind India in the aftermath of Galwan.

The international community was exposed as being in no position to extend any tangible support to India against China at a critical time. In fact, the US-led West used the India-China stand-off as an issue to advance their own strategic agenda, which included pushing defence deals and flattering India as a Quad groupie to advance their self-serving goals in the ‘Indo-Pacific’.

Beyond these, Xi’s presence in and show of his ‘hold’ on Tibet is message enough for those preoccupied with the issue of the Dalai Lama’s successor and where s/he may be born.

The author is Editorial Consultant, WION TV.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Tibet from July 21-23 is replete with significance and should be read right for its strategic implications by those entrusted with India’s external affairs, national security and defence.

Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Tibet from July 21-23 is replete with significance and should be read right for its strategic implications by those entrusted with India’s external affairs, national security and defence. How New Delhi views this landmark visit to the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) by a Chinese president—the first since President Jiang Zemin’s visit in 1990—needs to be adequately articulated to enable an informed understanding of what it means in the context of the current impasse in eastern Ladakh between the armed forces of the two Asian giants. Surprisingly, so far, there has been no studied response from the Government of India or the community of strategic affairs ‘experts’ who speak up for the establishment. President Xi’s visit to the strategically important TAR was unannounced and kept secret until it had concluded. Whether this was out of consideration to the sensitivities of TAR, the region or the ‘international community’, or all three remains a matter of conjecture. The fact is that the visit has meaning and messages for all three. Official reports said Xi’s visit—the first since he became president in 2013—was to mark the 70th anniversary of the “peaceful liberation of Tibet”. He had last visited Tibet in 2011, as vice president, for the 60th anniversary of Tibet’s “liberation”. He flew directly to Nyingchi, the border town close to India’s Arunachal Pradesh, and then to Lhasa by the bullet train operating since June 25. Xi, who is also Chairman of the Central Military Commission, had a meeting with top military officials in Lhasa and troops stationed in Tibet. According to state-owned media, he exhorted the forces to “fully strengthen the work of training soldiers and war preparation” and “promote long-term stability and prosperity of Tibet”. A cursory reading of Xi’s utterances on his visit to TAR suggest that his messaging is intended as much for Tibet and Tibetans as for for India and the “international community”. Although Beijing is in full political and military control of TAR, all the Tibetans are not entirely reconciled to this. Within TAR, Tibetans enjoy the fruits of economic and social development but feel the absence of both religious and political freedom. During a visit to Lhasa, I found that Tibetans from India had returned to TAR because, despite the absence of political freedoms, life and living conditions for them and their families were better in China. They found well-paying jobs, enjoyed a higher standard of living than say, for example, in India, had the benefits of social security, health care and good education and were generally secure. While consoling themselves that they were fortunate to be in Tibet, they were deeply pained by the Dalai Lama being in exile from his land. What makes it worse is the absence of any space whatsoever to express this anguish over the absence of their God-King from the land of his birth; which keeps them acutely aware at all times of their lack of political freedom. Many young Tibetans, who see “Free Tibet” as an elusive goal, have become realistic enough to pursue practical options for a better life, be it in TAR, elsewhere in China, India or the West. China’s success in “persuading” many young Tibetans to join the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) underscores the pragmatism of the recruits and their acceptance of a life choice that was unthinkable for Tibetans a few decades ago. The conspicuous recruitment of Tibetans amidst heightened PLA activity on the other side of the 3488-km border from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh suggests a hardening of Beijing’s political and military stand. Even if this be posturing, that it should come days ahead of the upcoming 12th round of corps commander-level talks (likely before mid-August) does not bode well for de-escalation of the prevalent India-China military tensions in eastern Ladakh, which have persisted in the aftermath of the Galwan clashes in June 2020. Therein lies a taunting message to the West: that these countries failed to live up to New Delhi’s expectations of rallying behind India in the aftermath of Galwan. The international community was exposed as being in no position to extend any tangible support to India against China at a critical time. In fact, the US-led West used the India-China stand-off as an issue to advance their own strategic agenda, which included pushing defence deals and flattering India as a Quad groupie to advance their self-serving goals in the ‘Indo-Pacific’. Beyond these, Xi’s presence in and show of his ‘hold’ on Tibet is message enough for those preoccupied with the issue of the Dalai Lama’s successor and where s/he may be born. The author is Editorial Consultant, WION TV. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | On The Margin: Xi throws a challenge from Tibet

Newly elected members of Dharamshala-based 17th Tibetan parliament-in-exile conducted an oath-taking ceremony on Wednesday.

One of the senior-most members, Dawa Tsering first took oath as Protem/Interim Speaker in front of the Chief Justice Commissioner, Sonam Dagpo and then other MPs followed.

All the proceedings were kept indoors and they did not allow any media to cover the oath ceremony due to COVID-19 protocol.

Dolma Tsering, an MP, said, "There is a lot of enthusiasm, we have lots of newcomers, new faces with new zeal and new ambition and a new vision. So, we're looking forward to work with them and their contribution towards the community."

Mgyur Dorjee, another MP, said, "It is an oath-taking day today and we have taken our oath under the charter 47 and details will come out very soon. Everything was indoors because of Covid protocol and we had to follow the procedure as prescribed by the government of Himachal Pradesh and we strictly followed it."

Lobsang, a new member of Tibetan parliament-in-exile, said, "I feel very proud today that I was able to take oath in front of the Interim Speaker and my objective is to look at as an expert in technology...as a technologist, I think this is something that I can bring to the parliament. Everything is indoors and there are not more than five members in each room and we are following the norms of COVID-19 protocol."

All the members are also expected to elect Speaker and Deputy Speaker later today.

Dolma Tsering and Sonam Temphel are contesting for the election of Speaker whereas four candidates, Namgyal Dolkar, Yudon Aukatsang, Migyur Dorjee and Karma Gelek, are participating in the race of Deputy Speaker.

Penpa Tsering is the newly elected President of the Tibetan government-in-exile.

Tibet is ruled by the Chinese Communist Party government based in Beijing, with local decision-making power concentrated in the hands of Chinese party officials.

Tibet was a sovereign state before China's invasion in 1950 when the People's Liberation Army entered northern Tibet.

Newly elected members of Dharamshala-based 17th Tibetan parliament-in-exile conducted an oath-taking ceremony on Wednesday. One of the senior-most members, Dawa Tsering first took oath as Protem/Interim Speaker in front of the Chief Justice Commissioner, Sonam Dagpo and then other MPs followed.

Newly elected members of Dharamshala-based 17th Tibetan parliament-in-exile conducted an oath-taking ceremony on Wednesday. One of the senior-most members, Dawa Tsering first took oath as Protem/Interim Speaker in front of the Chief Justice Commissioner, Sonam Dagpo and then other MPs followed. All the proceedings were kept indoors and they did not allow any media to cover the oath ceremony due to COVID-19 protocol. Dolma Tsering, an MP, said, "There is a lot of enthusiasm, we have lots of newcomers, new faces with new zeal and new ambition and a new vision. So, we're looking forward to work with them and their contribution towards the community." Mgyur Dorjee, another MP, said, "It is an oath-taking day today and we have taken our oath under the charter 47 and details will come out very soon. Everything was indoors because of Covid protocol and we had to follow the procedure as prescribed by the government of Himachal Pradesh and we strictly followed it." Lobsang, a new member of Tibetan parliament-in-exile, said, "I feel very proud today that I was able to take oath in front of the Interim Speaker and my objective is to look at as an expert in technology...as a technologist, I think this is something that I can bring to the parliament. Everything is indoors and there are not more than five members in each room and we are following the norms of COVID-19 protocol." All the members are also expected to elect Speaker and Deputy Speaker later today. Dolma Tsering and Sonam Temphel are contesting for the election of Speaker whereas four candidates, Namgyal Dolkar, Yudon Aukatsang, Migyur Dorjee and Karma Gelek, are participating in the race of Deputy Speaker. Penpa Tsering is the newly elected President of the Tibetan government-in-exile. Tibet is ruled by the Chinese Communist Party government based in Beijing, with local decision-making power concentrated in the hands of Chinese party officials. Tibet was a sovereign state before China's invasion in 1950 when the People's Liberation Army entered northern Tibet.

Newly elected members of 17th Tibetan parliament-in-exile take oath

China on Friday said that any successor to the present Dalai Lama should be approved by it, ruling out recognition to any heir nominated by him or by his followers.

The reincarnation of the Dalai Lama and other grand Living Buddhas has been subjected to approval by the central government since the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), claimed an official white paper issued by the Chinese government here.

The document has also asserted that Tibet was an inseparable part of China since ancient times.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-have-copyright-over-dalai-lama-reincarnation-tibetan-govt-in-exile-prez-374995">We have copyright over Dalai Lama reincarnation: Tibetan govt-in-exile prez</a>

"In 1793, after dispelling Gurkha invaders, the Qing government restored order in Tibet and promulgated the Imperially Approved Ordinance for Better Governance of Tibet, improving systems by which the central government-administered Tibet," the white paper titled 'Tibet Since 1951: Liberation, Development and Prosperity," said.

The ordinance stipulated that the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama and other grand Living Buddhas had to follow the procedure of "drawing lots from the golden urn" and that the selected candidate would be subject to approval by the central government of China, the document said.

The 14th Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959 following a Chinese crackdown on an uprising by the local population in Tibet. India granted him political asylum and the Tibetan government-in-exile has been based in Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh since then.

The Dalai Lama is 85 years old now and the issue of his successor has gained prominence in the last couple of years due to his advanced age.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-government-should-have-no-role-in-succession-process-of-the-dalai-lama-us-369303">Chinese government should have no role in succession process of the Dalai Lama: US</a>

The Dalai Lama's succession issue was in the limelight, especially in the last few years after the US has stepped up campaign that the right relating to the reincarnation of Dalai Lama's successor should be within the exclusive authority of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people.

The Tibetan Policy and Support Act of 2020 (TPSA) passed by the US Congress makes it official United States policy that decisions regarding the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama are exclusively within the authority of the current Dalai Lama, Tibetan Buddhist leaders and the Tibetan people.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-congress-passes-new-tibet-law-on-the-next-dalai-lama-infuriates-china-351594">US Congress passes new Tibet law on the next Dalai Lama; infuriates China</a>

Chinese Foreign Ministry officials have been asserting time and again that while the institution of reincarnation of the Dalai Lama has been in existence for several hundred years, the 14th (present) Dalai Lama himself was found and recognised following religious rituals and historic conventions, and his succession was approved by China's central government.

The white paper said by 2020, a total of 92 reincarnated Living Buddhas had been identified and approved through traditional religious rituals and historical conventions for temples in Tibet.

Traditional religious activities are carried out regularly in accordance with the law and examination on scriptures and subsequent promotion in academic degrees are also held in monasteries on a regular basis, it said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-wants-to-control-tibet-major-power-struggle-expected-after-demise-of-14th-dalai-lama-report-353319">China wants to control Tibet, major power struggle expected after demise of 14th Dalai Lama: Report</a>

The white paper termed the demand for Tibetan independence as a product of imperialist aggression against China. 
In the middle of the 19th century, the UK-led imperialist powers began to cultivate the idea of "Tibet independence," intentionally undermining China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, it said.

It slammed the Dalai Lama group for promoting "Tibetan independence".

"Over the years, the 14th Dalai Lama and his supporters have continued to try to promote "Tibetan independence" by provoking incidents to jeopardise peace and stability in Tibet," it said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explainer-why-china-wants-control-over-dalai-lama-353034">Explainer: Why China wants control over Dalai Lama?</a>

After the failure of their armed rebellion in 1959, the reactionaries of Tibet's ruling class fled to India and subsequently began to campaign for "Tibetan independence" by force", it said.

No country or government in the world has ever acknowledged the "independence of Tibet," it said.

China makes it mandatory to adhere to the 'One China' policy, recognising Tibet and Taiwan as an integral part of the country.

Beijing made the 'One-China' policy a prerequisite for countries to establish diplomatic ties with it.

About the incidents of over 100 Tibetans setting themselves on fire since 2011 demanding the return of the Dalai Lama from his exile, the white paper said the Dalai Lama and his supporters have incited Tibetan lamas into self-immolations. 
It also blamed the western anti-China forces for continuing to interfere in Tibetan affairs in an attempt to sabotage its social stability.

Justifying China's taking over of Tibet in 1951, it said with the peaceful liberation of Tibet 70 years ago, the people of Tibet broke free from the fetters of invading imperialism for good and embarked on a bright road of unity, progress and development with all the other ethnic groups in China.

China is a unified multi-ethnic country with a long history. The Chinese nation is a community of shared future. Tibet has developed through the combined efforts of all the ethnic groups in China, it said.

Rejecting allegations of curbs on religion, it said the province has more than 1,700 sites for Tibetan Buddhist activities with 46,000 monks and nuns besides four mosques serving 12,000 native Muslims, and a Catholic church with more than 700 followers, it said.

China on Friday said that any successor to the present Dalai Lama should be approved by it, ruling out recognition to any heir nominated by him or by his followers.

China on Friday said that any successor to the present Dalai Lama should be approved by it, ruling out recognition to any heir nominated by him or by his followers. The reincarnation of the Dalai Lama and other grand Living Buddhas has been subjected to approval by the central government since the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), claimed an official white paper issued by the Chinese government here. The document has also asserted that Tibet was an inseparable part of China since ancient times. Also Read | We have copyright over Dalai Lama reincarnation: Tibetan govt-in-exile prez "In 1793, after dispelling Gurkha invaders, the Qing government restored order in Tibet and promulgated the Imperially Approved Ordinance for Better Governance of Tibet, improving systems by which the central government-administered Tibet," the white paper titled 'Tibet Since 1951: Liberation, Development and Prosperity," said. The ordinance stipulated that the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama and other grand Living Buddhas had to follow the procedure of "drawing lots from the golden urn" and that the selected candidate would be subject to approval by the central government of China, the document said. The 14th Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959 following a Chinese crackdown on an uprising by the local population in Tibet. India granted him political asylum and the Tibetan government-in-exile has been based in Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh since then. The Dalai Lama is 85 years old now and the issue of his successor has gained prominence in the last couple of years due to his advanced age. Also Read | Chinese government should have no role in succession process of the Dalai Lama: US The Dalai Lama's succession issue was in the limelight, especially in the last few years after the US has stepped up campaign that the right relating to the reincarnation of Dalai Lama's successor should be within the exclusive authority of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people. The Tibetan Policy and Support Act of 2020 (TPSA) passed by the US Congress makes it official United States policy that decisions regarding the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama are exclusively within the authority of the current Dalai Lama, Tibetan Buddhist leaders and the Tibetan people. Also Read | US Congress passes new Tibet law on the next Dalai Lama; infuriates China Chinese Foreign Ministry officials have been asserting time and again that while the institution of reincarnation of the Dalai Lama has been in existence for several hundred years, the 14th (present) Dalai Lama himself was found and recognised following religious rituals and historic conventions, and his succession was approved by China's central government. The white paper said by 2020, a total of 92 reincarnated Living Buddhas had been identified and approved through traditional religious rituals and historical conventions for temples in Tibet. Traditional religious activities are carried out regularly in accordance with the law and examination on scriptures and subsequent promotion in academic degrees are also held in monasteries on a regular basis, it said. Also Read | China wants to control Tibet, major power struggle expected after demise of 14th Dalai Lama: Report The white paper termed the demand for Tibetan independence as a product of imperialist aggression against China. In the middle of the 19th century, the UK-led imperialist powers began to cultivate the idea of "Tibet independence," intentionally undermining China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, it said. It slammed the Dalai Lama group for promoting "Tibetan independence". "Over the years, the 14th Dalai Lama and his supporters have continued to try to promote "Tibetan independence" by provoking incidents to jeopardise peace and stability in Tibet," it said. Also Read | Explainer: Why China wants control over Dalai Lama? After the failure of their armed rebellion in 1959, the reactionaries of Tibet's ruling class fled to India and subsequently began to campaign for "Tibetan independence" by force", it said. No country or government in the world has ever acknowledged the "independence of Tibet," it said. China makes it mandatory to adhere to the 'One China' policy, recognising Tibet and Taiwan as an integral part of the country. Beijing made the 'One-China' policy a prerequisite for countries to establish diplomatic ties with it. About the incidents of over 100 Tibetans setting themselves on fire since 2011 demanding the return of the Dalai Lama from his exile, the white paper said the Dalai Lama and his supporters have incited Tibetan lamas into self-immolations. It also blamed the western anti-China forces for continuing to interfere in Tibetan affairs in an attempt to sabotage its social stability. Justifying China's taking over of Tibet in 1951, it said with the peaceful liberation of Tibet 70 years ago, the people of Tibet broke free from the fetters of invading imperialism for good and embarked on a bright road of unity, progress and development with all the other ethnic groups in China. China is a unified multi-ethnic country with a long history. The Chinese nation is a community of shared future. Tibet has developed through the combined efforts of all the ethnic groups in China, it said. Rejecting allegations of curbs on religion, it said the province has more than 1,700 sites for Tibetan Buddhist activities with 46,000 monks and nuns besides four mosques serving 12,000 native Muslims, and a Catholic church with more than 700 followers, it said.

Dalai Lama's successor has to be approved by Chinese government, insists Beijing

Penpa Tsering will be the next President of the Tibetan govt in Exile (or Sikyong of Central Tibetan Administration) based out of Dharamshala.&nbsp;

In his first comments after election victory to any media outlet, Penpa, speaking to WION diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal said he will "fulfil the aspirations of the electorate in all matters including resolving the Sino Tibet conflict".

He also spoke on the Chinese claim on the next Dalai Lama.

Tibetans had voted in two rounds of voting, the first one in January and the second in April. The voting took place in India&nbsp;and across the world where Tibetan refugees are present. Penpa has been the speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile and also served as the representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to North America.

Sidhant Sibal: Your first reaction to your victory?

Penpa Tsering: I fully respect the mandate of the public and as I have committed many times, I shall try to fulfil the aspirations of the electorate in all matters including resolving the Sino-Tibet conflict and looking after the welfare of the Tibetan people.

Sidhant Sibal: Your reaction to the Chinese claim on the succession of Dalai Lama?

Penpa Tsering: For that, I think the Chinese leadership will have to learn Buddhism to decide who should succeed His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Otherwise, they should respect the decision of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people since it is a purely religious matter

Sidhant Sibal: How will you deal with the COVID-19 crisis?&nbsp;

Penpa Tsering: Overall we have to work under the guidelines provided by the central govt of India, and the respective state govt where Tibetan settlements (are present). But for the Tibetan population, the effort I would be making would be to try to inoculate as many Tibetans as possible and try to provide medical equipments and aids where we have a larger number of cases.

Penpa Tsering will be the next President of the Tibetan govt in Exile (or Sikyong of Central Tibetan Administration) based out of Dharamshala. In his first comments after election victory to any media outlet, Penpa, speaking to WION diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal said he will "fulfil the aspirations of the electorate in all matters including resolving the Sino Tibet conflict".

Penpa Tsering will be the next President of the Tibetan govt in Exile (or Sikyong of Central Tibetan Administration) based out of Dharamshala. In his first comments after election victory to any media outlet, Penpa, speaking to WION diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal said he will "fulfil the aspirations of the electorate in all matters including resolving the Sino Tibet conflict". He also spoke on the Chinese claim on the next Dalai Lama. Tibetans had voted in two rounds of voting, the first one in January and the second in April. The voting took place in India and across the world where Tibetan refugees are present. Penpa has been the speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile and also served as the representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to North America. Sidhant Sibal: Your first reaction to your victory? Penpa Tsering: I fully respect the mandate of the public and as I have committed many times, I shall try to fulfil the aspirations of the electorate in all matters including resolving the Sino-Tibet conflict and looking after the welfare of the Tibetan people. Sidhant Sibal: Your reaction to the Chinese claim on the succession of Dalai Lama? Penpa Tsering: For that, I think the Chinese leadership will have to learn Buddhism to decide who should succeed His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Otherwise, they should respect the decision of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people since it is a purely religious matter Sidhant Sibal: How will you deal with the COVID-19 crisis? Penpa Tsering: Overall we have to work under the guidelines provided by the central govt of India, and the respective state govt where Tibetan settlements (are present). But for the Tibetan population, the effort I would be making would be to try to inoculate as many Tibetans as possible and try to provide medical equipments and aids where we have a larger number of cases.

Penpa Tsering to be next President of Tibetan government in exile; asks China to learn Buddhism

Dismissing Chinese claims on appointing&nbsp;the next Dalai Lama, the president of the Tibetan Government in Exile has said it is&nbsp;Tibetans who have "copyright" over his reincarnation, and Beijing plans to have a "duplicate" copy.&nbsp;

Lobsang Sangay,&nbsp;Sikyong (President) of the Central Tibetan Administration (Tibetan Government in Exile), said,&nbsp;"Communist party of China has zero credibility, as far as reincarnation is concerned. Communist party believes in atheism. They say religion is poison, why do they want to interfere in our internal affairs?"

Responding to a question from WION at an event,&nbsp;Sangay, the political successor to Dalai Lama, explained, "for almost 1000 years, we the Tibetans have selected our own reincarnate lamas, including the Dalai Lamas. So we have the patent and copyright over the reincarnation. So we are the original and Chinese will have duplicate. Original original hota hai, duplicate, duplicate."

China, possibly keen to increase its influence on Tibetan Buddhism, has said that it will appoint the next Dalai Lama, the 15th in the line of succession. The current Dalai Lama is the 14th one and had to leave Tibet in 1959 after the region was occupied by China.&nbsp;

Asked if China could do a repetition of Galwan or Doklam border clashes with India, he said,&nbsp;&nbsp;"Very likely, 60 years ago after they occupied Tibet, they said, once we occupy Tibet as the palm, they will come after five&nbsp;fingers, right? What you saw in Doklam, is one of the five fingers. What you saw in Galwan is one of the five fingers, these kinds of incursions will continue. Ultimately, Chinese government policy is expansionist. These kinds of incidents will keep happening."

The 2020 Galwan incident saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh due to aggressive Chinese actions. In the Doklam incident of&nbsp;2017, China tried to occupy Bhutanese territory, which was stopped by Indian forces.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Dismissing Chinese claims on appointing the next Dalai Lama, the president of the Tibetan Government in Exile has said it is Tibetans who have "copyright" over his reincarnation, and Beijing plans to have a "duplicate" copy.

Dismissing Chinese claims on appointing the next Dalai Lama, the president of the Tibetan Government in Exile has said it is Tibetans who have "copyright" over his reincarnation, and Beijing plans to have a "duplicate" copy. Lobsang Sangay, Sikyong (President) of the Central Tibetan Administration (Tibetan Government in Exile), said, "Communist party of China has zero credibility, as far as reincarnation is concerned. Communist party believes in atheism. They say religion is poison, why do they want to interfere in our internal affairs?" Responding to a question from WION at an event, Sangay, the political successor to Dalai Lama, explained, "for almost 1000 years, we the Tibetans have selected our own reincarnate lamas, including the Dalai Lamas. So we have the patent and copyright over the reincarnation. So we are the original and Chinese will have duplicate. Original original hota hai, duplicate, duplicate." China, possibly keen to increase its influence on Tibetan Buddhism, has said that it will appoint the next Dalai Lama, the 15th in the line of succession. The current Dalai Lama is the 14th one and had to leave Tibet in 1959 after the region was occupied by China. Asked if China could do a repetition of Galwan or Doklam border clashes with India, he said, "Very likely, 60 years ago after they occupied Tibet, they said, once we occupy Tibet as the palm, they will come after five fingers, right? What you saw in Doklam, is one of the five fingers. What you saw in Galwan is one of the five fingers, these kinds of incursions will continue. Ultimately, Chinese government policy is expansionist. These kinds of incidents will keep happening." The 2020 Galwan incident saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh due to aggressive Chinese actions. In the Doklam incident of 2017, China tried to occupy Bhutanese territory, which was stopped by Indian forces.

We have copyright over Dalai Lama reincarnation: Tibetan govt-in-exile prez

Speaking on the occasion of the 62nd anniversary of Tibetan Uprising Day against the Chinese occupation of the remote Himalayan region, the US house of representatives speaker Nancy Pelosi said the US will continue standing in support of the Tibetan people.

Pelosi also accused China of waging a campaign to destroy Tibet's culture and history by forcing locals to sacrifice their rights and freedom.

"Sixty-two years ago, brave Tibetans rose up against the Chinese invasion to protect their way of life and culture. Today, we continue to stand with the Tibetan people and honour those who sacrificed all for their rights and freedom," Pelosi said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-government-should-have-no-role-in-succession-process-of-the-dalai-lama-us-369303">Chinese government should have no role in succession process of the Dalai Lama: US</a>

Expressing solidarity with the Tibetan people, she said, "Tibetan men, women and children want simply to practice their faith, speak their language and celebrate their culture free from violence and intimidation. Yet, Beijing for decades has waged a campaign to destroy Tibet’s proud culture and history, which remains a clarion call for action to freedom-loving people worldwide."

The speaker's&nbsp;statement has come after the newly-elected Joe Biden administration said that the Chinese government should not have any role in the succession process of Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama.

"This year, as we mark this solemn anniversary, we continue to take inspiration from the Dalai Lama’s powerful message of peace, faith and love," Pelosi said. "Guided by His Holiness’s spirit of hope, we will never rest in our efforts to advance freedom and opportunity in Tibet and throughout China – because if we do not stand up for human rights in China due to commercial interests, then we lose all moral authority to talk about human rights in any other place in the world. We will not be deterred in this vital mission."

Last year, former US President Donald Trump had signed a bill into law asking for the establishment of a US consulate in Tibet and also building an international coalition to ensure that the next Dalai Lama is appointed solely by the Tibetan Buddhist community, sans involvement of the Chinese government.

Speaking on the occasion of the 62nd anniversary of Tibetan Uprising Day against the Chinese occupation of the remote Himalayan region, the US house of representatives speaker Nancy Pelosi said the US will continue standing in support of the Tibetan people.

Speaking on the occasion of the 62nd anniversary of Tibetan Uprising Day against the Chinese occupation of the remote Himalayan region, the US house of representatives speaker Nancy Pelosi said the US will continue standing in support of the Tibetan people. Pelosi also accused China of waging a campaign to destroy Tibet's culture and history by forcing locals to sacrifice their rights and freedom. "Sixty-two years ago, brave Tibetans rose up against the Chinese invasion to protect their way of life and culture. Today, we continue to stand with the Tibetan people and honour those who sacrificed all for their rights and freedom," Pelosi said. Also read | Chinese government should have no role in succession process of the Dalai Lama: US Expressing solidarity with the Tibetan people, she said, "Tibetan men, women and children want simply to practice their faith, speak their language and celebrate their culture free from violence and intimidation. Yet, Beijing for decades has waged a campaign to destroy Tibet’s proud culture and history, which remains a clarion call for action to freedom-loving people worldwide." The speaker's statement has come after the newly-elected Joe Biden administration said that the Chinese government should not have any role in the succession process of Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. "This year, as we mark this solemn anniversary, we continue to take inspiration from the Dalai Lama’s powerful message of peace, faith and love," Pelosi said. "Guided by His Holiness’s spirit of hope, we will never rest in our efforts to advance freedom and opportunity in Tibet and throughout China – because if we do not stand up for human rights in China due to commercial interests, then we lose all moral authority to talk about human rights in any other place in the world. We will not be deterred in this vital mission." Last year, former US President Donald Trump had signed a bill into law asking for the establishment of a US consulate in Tibet and also building an international coalition to ensure that the next Dalai Lama is appointed solely by the Tibetan Buddhist community, sans involvement of the Chinese government.

Nancy Pelosi accuses China of destroying Tibet's culture and history

The Biden administration has said the Chinese government should have "no role in the succession process of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-wants-to-control-tibet-major-power-struggle-expected-after-demise-of-14th-dalai-lama-report-353319">Dalai Lama</a>".

"We believe that the Chinese government should have no role in the succession process of the Dalai Lama," US State Department spokesman Ned Price said, adding, "Beijing's interference in the succession of the Panchen Lama more than 25 years ago, including "disappearing the Panchen Lama as a child and attempting to replace him with a People's Republic of China (PRC) government-chosen successor remains an outrageous abuse of religious freedom."

The Dalai Lama had fled to India in 1959 along with his supporters amid growing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explainer-why-china-wants-control-over-dalai-lama-353034">Chinese </a>repression. The Tibetan spiritual leader has been staying in Dharamsala ever since.

Human rights activists say China tramples on religious freedom and culture in Tibet ever since People's Liberation Army(PLA) troops intervened in the region in 1950.

On February 13, 1913, the 13th Dalai Lama had reasserted Tibetan independence in the declaration of the "Proclamation of Independence"&nbsp;since then Tibetans mark the&nbsp;day. Last month, exiled Tibetans marked their 108th Independence Day.

The Trump administration had signed a law that authorized US sanctions on Chinese officials if they interfered in the&nbsp;selection of the next Dalai Lama.

The US Congress had overwhelmingly approved the Tibetan Policy and Support Act amid growing concern that China may handpick the successor of&nbsp;the Dalai Lama.

The US House of Representatives had passed the bill with a 392-22 majority with the Senate passing it as well.

According to the new law, the United States will impose sanctions on officials "who directly interfere with the identification and installation of the future 15th <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-involved-in-hawala-racket-was-also-collecting-information-on-dalai-lama-reports-321132">Dalai Lama</a> of Tibetan Buddhism."

The Biden administration has said the Chinese government should have "no role in the succession process of the Dalai Lama". "We believe that the Chinese government should have no role in the succession process of the Dalai Lama," US State Department spokesman Ned Price said, adding, "Beijing's interference in the succession of the Panchen Lama more than 25 years ago, including "disappearing the Panchen Lama as a child and attempting to replace him with a People's Republic of China (PRC) government-chosen successor remains an outrageous abuse of religious freedom.

The Biden administration has said the Chinese government should have "no role in the succession process of the Dalai Lama". "We believe that the Chinese government should have no role in the succession process of the Dalai Lama," US State Department spokesman Ned Price said, adding, "Beijing's interference in the succession of the Panchen Lama more than 25 years ago, including "disappearing the Panchen Lama as a child and attempting to replace him with a People's Republic of China (PRC) government-chosen successor remains an outrageous abuse of religious freedom." The Dalai Lama had fled to India in 1959 along with his supporters amid growing Chinese repression. The Tibetan spiritual leader has been staying in Dharamsala ever since. Human rights activists say China tramples on religious freedom and culture in Tibet ever since People's Liberation Army(PLA) troops intervened in the region in 1950. On February 13, 1913, the 13th Dalai Lama had reasserted Tibetan independence in the declaration of the "Proclamation of Independence" since then Tibetans mark the day. Last month, exiled Tibetans marked their 108th Independence Day. The Trump administration had signed a law that authorized US sanctions on Chinese officials if they interfered in the selection of the next Dalai Lama. The US Congress had overwhelmingly approved the Tibetan Policy and Support Act amid growing concern that China may handpick the successor of the Dalai Lama. The US House of Representatives had passed the bill with a 392-22 majority with the Senate passing it as well. According to the new law, the United States will impose sanctions on officials "who directly interfere with the identification and installation of the future 15th Dalai Lama of Tibetan Buddhism."

Chinese government should have no role in succession process of the Dalai Lama: US

The Tibetan government in exile has gone to polls in Dharamshala in India.

The elections for the 17th parliament of the central Tibetan administration have kickstarted with the results due to be out on May 14.

The parliamentary government of Tibetans in exile was formed way back in 1959, however, it is not officially recognised by the Chinese regime but the Tibetan diaspora and refugees across the world have supported this administration by voting for members of its parliament.

Now, elections for the 17th parliament is currently underway with polling beginning on January 3. Hundreds of Tibetans living in Dharamshala lined up to cast their ballot in the first round of voting. The second and final round is scheduled for April 11.

The new Sikyong or president will be announced on May 14 along with 45 parliamentarians. Lobsang Sangay will be completing his second term as president.&nbsp;

"Despite the pandemic, Tibetans in almost 40 countries are taking part in the elections, young and old all are coming out and participating in the election. So, this is a momentous and historic event because even though we are in exile, even though in South Asia we are refugees but we are exercising our fundamental right," Lobsang Sangay, said.

According to the last survey of the Tibetan diaspora, there are more than 140,000 Tibetans living in exile in over 40 countries. India is home to at least 100,000 Tibetans. This year as many as 80,000 Tibetans have registered themselves as voters out of this 55,000 voters reside in India.

"Tibet is under occupation, but Tibetans in exile are free and given the chance and opportunity, we prefer democracy over the authoritarian system," Sangay asserted.

A record number of 150 candidates are vying for the top political post. The front-runners include Kasur Dongchung Ngodup who is the representative of the Dalai Lama in New Delhi.

Kelsang Dorjee Aukatsang, the former representative of Dalai Lama to North America is also in the running, as is Penpa Tsering, former Speaker of the parliament in exile and Acharya Yeshi Phuntosok the incumbent deputy Speaker.

Their fate is being sealed at 12 polling stations in Dharamshala besides this important polling stations have been set up in New York, Toronto and London.

The elections are taking place with all the necessary support from New Delhi since 61 years India has not only housed Tibetans in exile and preserved their cultural heritage but has also enabled them to democratically elect their leader every five years.

The Tibetan government in exile has gone to polls in Dharamshala in India. The elections for the 17th parliament of the central Tibetan administration have kickstarted with the results due to be out on May 14.

The Tibetan government in exile has gone to polls in Dharamshala in India. The elections for the 17th parliament of the central Tibetan administration have kickstarted with the results due to be out on May 14. The parliamentary government of Tibetans in exile was formed way back in 1959, however, it is not officially recognised by the Chinese regime but the Tibetan diaspora and refugees across the world have supported this administration by voting for members of its parliament. Now, elections for the 17th parliament is currently underway with polling beginning on January 3. Hundreds of Tibetans living in Dharamshala lined up to cast their ballot in the first round of voting. The second and final round is scheduled for April 11. The new Sikyong or president will be announced on May 14 along with 45 parliamentarians. Lobsang Sangay will be completing his second term as president. "Despite the pandemic, Tibetans in almost 40 countries are taking part in the elections, young and old all are coming out and participating in the election. So, this is a momentous and historic event because even though we are in exile, even though in South Asia we are refugees but we are exercising our fundamental right," Lobsang Sangay, said. According to the last survey of the Tibetan diaspora, there are more than 140,000 Tibetans living in exile in over 40 countries. India is home to at least 100,000 Tibetans. This year as many as 80,000 Tibetans have registered themselves as voters out of this 55,000 voters reside in India. "Tibet is under occupation, but Tibetans in exile are free and given the chance and opportunity, we prefer democracy over the authoritarian system," Sangay asserted. A record number of 150 candidates are vying for the top political post. The front-runners include Kasur Dongchung Ngodup who is the representative of the Dalai Lama in New Delhi. Kelsang Dorjee Aukatsang, the former representative of Dalai Lama to North America is also in the running, as is Penpa Tsering, former Speaker of the parliament in exile and Acharya Yeshi Phuntosok the incumbent deputy Speaker. Their fate is being sealed at 12 polling stations in Dharamshala besides this important polling stations have been set up in New York, Toronto and London. The elections are taking place with all the necessary support from New Delhi since 61 years India has not only housed Tibetans in exile and preserved their cultural heritage but has also enabled them to democratically elect their leader every five years.

All you need to know about Tibetan elections held at Dharamshala

China on Thursday slammed the US government for the appointment of special coordinator on Tibet affairs calling it an act of "interfere".

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-us-appoints-special-coordinator-for-tibet-335591/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The US side should stop using the Tibet issue to interfere in China’s internal affairs and destroy Tibet’s development and stability," foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-appoints-tibet-coordinator-to-send-a-message-to-china-335576">Also Read:&nbsp;US appoints Tibet coordinator to send a message to China</a>

The Trump administration had appointed Robert Destro as the "special coordinator" on Tibetan issues amid tension between China and the US.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-appoints-robert-destro-as-special-coordinator-for-tibetan-issues-335413">Robert Destro</a> is a senior US human rights official is also the assistant secretary of state for democracy, human rights and labour.&nbsp;

The US has criticised the Xi government's human rights record on issues including Xinjiang and Tibet.

However, the Chinese foreign ministry said that ethnic minorities in Tibet enjoy "full freedom of religious belief" as it accused the US of &nbsp;"political manipulation".&nbsp;

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo while introducing Destro as the special envoy on Tibet, said: "Destro will lead US efforts to promote dialogue between the People’s Republic of China and the Dalai Lama or his representatives; protect the unique religious, cultural, and linguistic identity of Tibetans; and press for their human rights to be respected."

"The United States remains concerned with the PRC’s repression of the Tibetan community," Pompeo added.

Tibet's regional chairman Che Dalha said China "never restricted foreigners' entry into Tibet". The US government had earlier restricted visas of Chinese officials who were allegedly involved in blocking diplomatic access to Tibet.

China on Thursday slammed the US government for the appointment of special coordinator on Tibet affairs calling it an act of "interfere". Watch: "The US side should stop using the Tibet issue to interfere in China’s internal affairs and destroy Tibet’s development and stability," foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said.

China on Thursday slammed the US government for the appointment of special coordinator on Tibet affairs calling it an act of "interfere". Watch: "The US side should stop using the Tibet issue to interfere in China’s internal affairs and destroy Tibet’s development and stability," foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said. Also Read: US appoints Tibet coordinator to send a message to China The Trump administration had appointed Robert Destro as the "special coordinator" on Tibetan issues amid tension between China and the US. Robert Destro is a senior US human rights official is also the assistant secretary of state for democracy, human rights and labour. The US has criticised the Xi government's human rights record on issues including Xinjiang and Tibet. However, the Chinese foreign ministry said that ethnic minorities in Tibet enjoy "full freedom of religious belief" as it accused the US of "political manipulation". US secretary of state Mike Pompeo while introducing Destro as the special envoy on Tibet, said: "Destro will lead US efforts to promote dialogue between the People’s Republic of China and the Dalai Lama or his representatives; protect the unique religious, cultural, and linguistic identity of Tibetans; and press for their human rights to be respected." "The United States remains concerned with the PRC’s repression of the Tibetan community," Pompeo added. Tibet's regional chairman Che Dalha said China "never restricted foreigners' entry into Tibet". The US government had earlier restricted visas of Chinese officials who were allegedly involved in blocking diplomatic access to Tibet.

US should stop using Tibet to interfere in our internal affairs: China

Amid tensions with China, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo today named Robert Destro as the special coordinator on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tibet-inner-mongolia-and-xinjiang-chinas-many-wars-330300">Tibetan</a> issues.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-40-nations-rebuke-chinas-human-rights-policies-in-xinjiang-tibet-333035">Also Read:&nbsp;Around 40 nations rebuke China's human rights policies in Xinjiang, Tibet</a>

Robert Destro who is a senior US human rights official is also the assistant secretary of state for democracy, human rights and labour.&nbsp;

Pompeo said: "Destro will lead US efforts to promote dialogue between the People’s Republic of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-chinas-four-pronged-approach-to-restructure-tibet-through-repression-329738">China</a> and the Dalai Lama or his representatives; protect the unique religious, cultural, and linguistic identity of Tibetans; and press for their human rights to be respected."

"The United States remains concerned with the PRC’s repression of the Tibetan community," Pompeo added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-surprising-at-all-tibetan-activist-on-new-report-on-detention-sites-in-chinas-xinjiang-330326">China </a>had annexed Tibet in 1950, later the Dalai Lama fled to India as repression increased as PLA troops moved into the area.

The US government had earlier restricted visas of Chinese officials who were involved in blocking diplomatic access to Tibet.

Robert Destro had earlier visited Taiwan along with Keith Krach who is the undersecretary of state for economic growth, energy and the environment, a move which was criticised by China.&nbsp;

The United States and China have clashed over several issues including the South China Sea row, trade wars and the coronavirus pandemic which US President Donald Trump has repeatedly blamed on the Xi government.

Amid tensions with China, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo today named Robert Destro as the special coordinator on Tibetan issues. Also Read: Around 40 nations rebuke China's human rights policies in Xinjiang, Tibet Robert Destro who is a senior US human rights official is also the assistant secretary of state for democracy, human rights and labour.

Amid tensions with China, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo today named Robert Destro as the special coordinator on Tibetan issues. Also Read: Around 40 nations rebuke China's human rights policies in Xinjiang, Tibet Robert Destro who is a senior US human rights official is also the assistant secretary of state for democracy, human rights and labour. Pompeo said: "Destro will lead US efforts to promote dialogue between the People’s Republic of China and the Dalai Lama or his representatives; protect the unique religious, cultural, and linguistic identity of Tibetans; and press for their human rights to be respected." "The United States remains concerned with the PRC’s repression of the Tibetan community," Pompeo added. China had annexed Tibet in 1950, later the Dalai Lama fled to India as repression increased as PLA troops moved into the area. The US government had earlier restricted visas of Chinese officials who were involved in blocking diplomatic access to Tibet. Robert Destro had earlier visited Taiwan along with Keith Krach who is the undersecretary of state for economic growth, energy and the environment, a move which was criticised by China. The United States and China have clashed over several issues including the South China Sea row, trade wars and the coronavirus pandemic which US President Donald Trump has repeatedly blamed on the Xi government.

US appoints Robert Destro as 'special coordinator' for Tibetan issues

The Chinese president, the commander in chief of China's armed forces is fortifying Tibet. Making plans to kill its tradition, culture and way of life. Xi Jinping calls it the sinicization of Tibet.

The Chinese president, the commander in chief of China's armed forces is fortifying Tibet. Making plans to kill its tradition, culture and way of life. Xi Jinping calls it the sinicization of Tibet. Over the weekend, he chaired a high-level meeting in China. Chinese state media carried some photographs. Xi Jinping was attending the seventh central symposium on Tibet work. This is China's highest-level meeting on Tibet. The Chinese president had two clear goals for the attendees. Number one, make the communist party the only religion in Tibet. Number two, crush any dissent. Xi Jinping delivered a speech. He wanted senior leaders to implement a series of steps to meet the two goals. Xi Jinping's three-step plan to takeover Tibet: Step number one: promote the sinicisation of Tibetan Buddhism. Buddhism with Chinese characteristics is what Xi Jinping wants. After Christians and Muslims, he wants to kill the religious freedom of the Buddhists. Step number two: Xi Jinping wants officials to strengthen political and ideological education in Tibetan schools. This means re-education. He said that officials need to "plant the seeds of loving china in the depths of hearts of every youth". Does this sound familiar? Ask the Uighurs. China plans to implement the Xinjiang playbook in Tibet. Replace religious texts with the communist party rulebook and --- influence young minds. So that they follow the diktats of the communist party. Step number three: Xi Jinping wants his officials to build an impregnable fortress around Tibet. The Chinese president was quite specific about this. He wants officials to strengthen border defence and frontier security of Tibet which means strengthen security to crush the dissent that is brewing in Tibet. Xi Jinping added that it is necessary to educate Tibetans to strengthen the "struggle against separatism". Xi Jinping is worried about the dissent that is brewing in Tibet. × In the garb of building a "new socialist modern tibet" --- the Chinese president wants to make sure that the calls for independence are crushed because --- a united voice for freedom will be a serious challenge for Beijing to tackle. Consider this statement from Xi Jinping: "We must adhere to the strategic thinking that governing the country must govern the borders and stabilize tibet before governing. It is necessary to maintain the unity of the motherland and strengthen national unity as Tibet's work." In Xi Jinping's eyes, Tibet needs to be stabilized. So --- he has ordered senior officials to sinicize Buddhism, re-educate students and fight those who call for separatism. Why is China worried about the stability of Tibet? The reason --- is Dalai Lama. China wants to install its own choice as the next Dalai Lama. But --- it faces opposition from young Tibetans. They say --- Beijing has no right to choose the next Dalai Lama. There is no clear successor. Given the Dalai lama's age and health --- Beijing perhaps anticipates an upheaval in the future. Beijing wants to impose its will on the Tibetans. So it is deploying the same tactics --- used against the Muslims in Xinjiang. China has turned to cultural genocide to seize control of Tibet.

Xi Jinping's three-step plan to sinicize Tibet

President Xi told senior leaders on Saturday that China must build an “impregnable fortress” to maintain stability in Tibet, Chinese state media Xinhua reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-asks-china-to-reveal-whereabouts-of-tibets-panchen-lama-who-has-been-missing-for-25-years-299564">Also Read:&nbsp;US asks China to reveal whereabouts of Tibet's Panchen Lama</a>

The Chinese president reportedly said that political and ideological education needs to be strengthened in Tibet’s schools to “plant the seeds of loving China in the depths of the hearts of every youth," in order to build a "united, prosperous, civilised, harmonious and beautiful new, modern, socialist Tibet."

The Chinese leader reportedly said that role of the Communist Party needs to be "strengthened" to "integrate" the Tibet's&nbsp;local ethnic group.&nbsp;

China had taken control of Tibet in 1951 in what it called "peacefully liberated", however, critics say China has repressed Tibetan culture even as exiled spiritual leader the Dalai Lama,85, continues to stay in India with China not allowing him any access to the region.

China had earlier imposed visa restrictions on US citizens who have engaged in what it called egregious behaviour over Tibet as Beijing asserted that it would allow not allow foreign interference in Tibetan affairs.

The US had restricted visas to Chinese officials who it said were "substantially involved" in the "exclusion" of foreigners from Tibet. The US had passed a law two years ago aimed at pressuring China over its tight restrictions in Tibet.

According to Xinhua news agency, Xi said Tibetan Buddhism needs to "adapt" to "socialism and to Chinese conditions".&nbsp;Xi reportedly said that China should protect national unity and educate the masses in the struggle against “splittism”

President Xi told senior leaders on Saturday that China must build an “impregnable fortress” to maintain stability in Tibet, Chinese state media Xinhua reported.

President Xi told senior leaders on Saturday that China must build an “impregnable fortress” to maintain stability in Tibet, Chinese state media Xinhua reported. Also Read: US asks China to reveal whereabouts of Tibet's Panchen Lama The Chinese president reportedly said that political and ideological education needs to be strengthened in Tibet’s schools to “plant the seeds of loving China in the depths of the hearts of every youth," in order to build a "united, prosperous, civilised, harmonious and beautiful new, modern, socialist Tibet." The Chinese leader reportedly said that role of the Communist Party needs to be "strengthened" to "integrate" the Tibet's local ethnic group. China had taken control of Tibet in 1951 in what it called "peacefully liberated", however, critics say China has repressed Tibetan culture even as exiled spiritual leader the Dalai Lama,85, continues to stay in India with China not allowing him any access to the region. China had earlier imposed visa restrictions on US citizens who have engaged in what it called egregious behaviour over Tibet as Beijing asserted that it would allow not allow foreign interference in Tibetan affairs. The US had restricted visas to Chinese officials who it said were "substantially involved" in the "exclusion" of foreigners from Tibet. The US had passed a law two years ago aimed at pressuring China over its tight restrictions in Tibet. According to Xinhua news agency, Xi said Tibetan Buddhism needs to "adapt" to "socialism and to Chinese conditions". Xi reportedly said that China should protect national unity and educate the masses in the struggle against “splittism”

China must build an 'impregnable fortress' to maintain stability in Tibet: Xi to party leaders

After the US government said that it was&nbsp;restricting visas to Chinese officials over Tibet over "meaningful autonomy", the Chinese foreign ministry said it has "repeatedly made clear its stern stand on the so-called Reciprocal Access To Tibet Act of 2018 of the United States."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-restrict-visas-for-chinese-officials-over-tibet-pompeo-says-311478">Also Read:&nbsp;US will restrict visas for Chinese officials over Tibet, Pompeo says</a>

"Tibetan affairs are China's internal affairs, brooking no outside interference. As China is pursuing an opening-up policy, Tibet is open and it has never restricted access to&nbsp;foreigners. In fact, Tibet receives a large number of foreign visitors and people from all walks of life," China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said.

The foreign ministry spokesman asserted that China "firmly opposes" acts by the United States as it imposed reciprocal visa restrictions on US individuals "who behaved egregiously on the issue of Tibet".

"Last year, more than 40 million tourists from domestic and abroad visited Tibet. The US ambassador to China Terry Branstad also made a visit to the region last year, and held talks with a number of departments of the government of the autonomous region. Related reports can be found in the media, it indicates that there is not any restriction for the access of foreignersm," China's foreign minsitry official said.

However, Pompeo in a statement had said that "Beijing has continued to systematically obstruct travel to the Tibetan Autonomous Region and other Tibetan areas by US diplomats and other officials, journalists and tourists". The US action came a day after the 85th birthday of the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet who had fled China's rule in 1959 to settle in a life of exile in India.

The US Congress had passed a law two years ago to pressure China over its restrictions in Tibet.

"China welcomes more foreigners visiting Tibet for sightseeing or business, and this police will not change, but on condition that they must abide by China`s law and related restrictions, and fulfill necessary procedures," China's foreign ministry spokesman asserted.

After the US government said that it was restricting visas to Chinese officials over Tibet over "meaningful autonomy", the Chinese foreign ministry said it has "repeatedly made clear its stern stand on the so-called Reciprocal Access To Tibet Act of 2018 of the United States.

After the US government said that it was restricting visas to Chinese officials over Tibet over "meaningful autonomy", the Chinese foreign ministry said it has "repeatedly made clear its stern stand on the so-called Reciprocal Access To Tibet Act of 2018 of the United States." Also Read: US will restrict visas for Chinese officials over Tibet, Pompeo says "Tibetan affairs are China's internal affairs, brooking no outside interference. As China is pursuing an opening-up policy, Tibet is open and it has never restricted access to foreigners. In fact, Tibet receives a large number of foreign visitors and people from all walks of life," China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said. The foreign ministry spokesman asserted that China "firmly opposes" acts by the United States as it imposed reciprocal visa restrictions on US individuals "who behaved egregiously on the issue of Tibet". "Last year, more than 40 million tourists from domestic and abroad visited Tibet. The US ambassador to China Terry Branstad also made a visit to the region last year, and held talks with a number of departments of the government of the autonomous region. Related reports can be found in the media, it indicates that there is not any restriction for the access of foreignersm," China's foreign minsitry official said. However, Pompeo in a statement had said that "Beijing has continued to systematically obstruct travel to the Tibetan Autonomous Region and other Tibetan areas by US diplomats and other officials, journalists and tourists". The US action came a day after the 85th birthday of the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet who had fled China's rule in 1959 to settle in a life of exile in India. The US Congress had passed a law two years ago to pressure China over its restrictions in Tibet. "China welcomes more foreigners visiting Tibet for sightseeing or business, and this police will not change, but on condition that they must abide by China`s law and related restrictions, and fulfill necessary procedures," China's foreign ministry spokesman asserted.

Tibet is our internal affair, never restricted access to foreigners, says China over US visa row

Memes, music, dance routines, and make-up tutorials. Tiktok is not an entertainment platform. 
&nbsp; 
It is a propaganda tool of the Chinese Communist Party. Tiktok has told its moderators to censor content against the Chinese government, for example,&nbsp;those mentioning the Dalai Lama or Tibet. 
&nbsp; 
The email was reportedly sent to Tiktok's team in India. The target was Indian content although we cannot independently verify&nbsp;the authenticity of the email.

TikTok is owned by Bytedance. It is a Chinese tech company headquartered in Beijing.

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E-mail done by TikTok to their India employees for removing anything which is against Chinese Government, especially Tibet and Dalai Lama! 
 
Is this your way China to curb the Freedom of Speech across the globe? <a href="https://t.co/6ujBAcRogd">pic.twitter.com/6ujBAcRogd</a>
— Zankrut Oza (@zankrut) <a href="https://twitter.com/zankrut/status/1261545706533289984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In 2018, Bytedance founder Zhang Yiming made a pledge to the Chinese government. Zhang promised to ensure party “voices are broadcast to strength.”

"Further deepening cooperation with authoritative [official party] media, elevating distribution of authoritative media content, ensuring that authoritative [official party] media voices are broadcast to strength, " Zhang said.

Over the last 2 years, TikTok has been adhering to the&nbsp;pledge. It has systematically removed anti-China content from its platform.

There is growing global support for Taiwan right now, it is not surprising that TikTok wants to do away with the very mention of Taiwan or Tibet and the Dalai Lama.&nbsp;

TikTok has previously asked its censors to moderate a range of videos.&nbsp;

Those mentioning Tiananmen Square or Tibetian independence or banned religious group - Falun Gong and&nbsp;videos mentioning Hong Kong protests were taken down. As were those talking about the plight of Uighur Muslims.

Community guidelines are on its website but without any specifics. Despite guidelines against violent content, TikTok is filled with animal abuse content.

TikTok is like a hidden medicine in a dog's food bowl. There are tons of fun videos and that makes it impossible to realise that it may also be part of Chinese propaganda.

Tiktok is an undercover Chinese foreign policy tool. If authentic, the&nbsp;email spells global information war. Banning TikTok would be India's best reply to the thread.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-guidelines-for-content-that-goes-against-china-tiktok-to-wion-299931">Also read | TikTok's clarification to Wion's story</a>

Memes, music, dance routines, and make-up tutorials. Tiktok is not an entertainment platform. It is a propaganda tool of the Chinese Communist Party. Tiktok has told its moderators to censor content against the Chinese government, for example, those mentioning the Dalai Lama or Tibet.

Memes, music, dance routines, and make-up tutorials. Tiktok is not an entertainment platform. It is a propaganda tool of the Chinese Communist Party. Tiktok has told its moderators to censor content against the Chinese government, for example, those mentioning the Dalai Lama or Tibet. The email was reportedly sent to Tiktok's team in India. The target was Indian content although we cannot independently verify the authenticity of the email. TikTok is owned by Bytedance. It is a Chinese tech company headquartered in Beijing. E-mail done by TikTok to their India employees for removing anything which is against Chinese Government, especially Tibet and Dalai Lama! Is this your way China to curb the Freedom of Speech across the globe? pic.twitter.com/6ujBAcRogd — Zankrut Oza (@zankrut) May 16, 2020 × In 2018, Bytedance founder Zhang Yiming made a pledge to the Chinese government. Zhang promised to ensure party “voices are broadcast to strength.” "Further deepening cooperation with authoritative [official party] media, elevating distribution of authoritative media content, ensuring that authoritative [official party] media voices are broadcast to strength, " Zhang said. Over the last 2 years, TikTok has been adhering to the pledge. It has systematically removed anti-China content from its platform. There is growing global support for Taiwan right now, it is not surprising that TikTok wants to do away with the very mention of Taiwan or Tibet and the Dalai Lama. TikTok has previously asked its censors to moderate a range of videos. Those mentioning Tiananmen Square or Tibetian independence or banned religious group - Falun Gong and videos mentioning Hong Kong protests were taken down. As were those talking about the plight of Uighur Muslims. Community guidelines are on its website but without any specifics. Despite guidelines against violent content, TikTok is filled with animal abuse content. TikTok is like a hidden medicine in a dog's food bowl. There are tons of fun videos and that makes it impossible to realise that it may also be part of Chinese propaganda. Tiktok is an undercover Chinese foreign policy tool. If authentic, the email spells global information war. Banning TikTok would be India's best reply to the thread. Also read | TikTok's clarification to Wion's story

TikTok: An entertainment platform or Chinese propaganda company?

The US House of Representatives has passed a bill strengthening Washington's support for human rights and environmental protection in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tibetans-retain-power-of-truth-china-exercises-power-of-guns-dalai-lama-270151">Tibet</a>, and advocating sanctions against China if it interferes in the succession of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/tibetan-government-passes-resolution-on-reincarnation-of-dalai-lama-254071">Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama</a>.

The bill, Tibet Policy Support Act of 2019, states that if <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chinas-increased-influence-in-nepal-led-to-ban-on-dalai-lama-birthday-celebration-us-envoy-257843">Chinese officials</a> interfere in the process of recognizing a successor or reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, they will be subject to sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Act.

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Introduced by Congressman James P McGovern, Chairman of the House Rules Committee and the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, the bill passed with an overwhelming vote of 392-22, reported CNN.

Stating that the US is sending a 'clear signal' to China, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said, "We are sending Beijing a clear signal that they will be held accountable for interfering in Tibet's religious and cultural affairs. We are making clear that Chinese officials who meddle in the process of recognizing a new Dalai Lama will be subject to targeted sanctions, including those in the Global Magnitsky Act."

"I rise in support of the Tibetan Policy Act of 2019: strong, bipartisan and urgently-needed legislation to strengthen America's commitment to the Tibetan people and their right to safeguard their distinct identity," she added.

Further, she added that this legislation deploys America's diplomatic weight to encourage a genuine dialogue between Tibetan leaders and Beijing.

"It is unacceptable that the Chinese government still refuses to enter into a dialogue with Tibetan leaders," she added.

The US House of Representatives has passed a bill strengthening Washington's support for human rights and environmental protection in Tibet, and advocating sanctions against China if it interferes in the succession of Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama.

The US House of Representatives has passed a bill strengthening Washington's support for human rights and environmental protection in Tibet, and advocating sanctions against China if it interferes in the succession of Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama. The bill, Tibet Policy Support Act of 2019, states that if Chinese officials interfere in the process of recognizing a successor or reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, they will be subject to sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Act. Also Read: Dalai Lama: A monk in the middle of two rival nations Introduced by Congressman James P McGovern, Chairman of the House Rules Committee and the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, the bill passed with an overwhelming vote of 392-22, reported CNN. Stating that the US is sending a 'clear signal' to China, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said, "We are sending Beijing a clear signal that they will be held accountable for interfering in Tibet's religious and cultural affairs. We are making clear that Chinese officials who meddle in the process of recognizing a new Dalai Lama will be subject to targeted sanctions, including those in the Global Magnitsky Act." "I rise in support of the Tibetan Policy Act of 2019: strong, bipartisan and urgently-needed legislation to strengthen America's commitment to the Tibetan people and their right to safeguard their distinct identity," she added. Further, she added that this legislation deploys America's diplomatic weight to encourage a genuine dialogue between Tibetan leaders and Beijing. "It is unacceptable that the Chinese government still refuses to enter into a dialogue with Tibetan leaders," she added.

US House passes bill to support Tibet, warns sanctions on Chinese officials for interfering in Dalai Lama's succession

In a strong message to China, Tibetan government-in-exile has passed a resolution reaffirming that the successor of Dalai Lama will be chosen by the spiritual leader himself and no nation has locus standi on the issue. 
 
"No nation, government, entity or any individual can claim to recognise the reincarnation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The final authority on decisions regarding the reincarnation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama rests indisputably and completely with His Holiness the Dalai Lama himself and the concerned authorities of the Gaden Phodrang Trust," Speaker Pema Jungney, Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, told ANI on Saturday. 
 
The resolution comes days ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping visit to India. 
 
Jungney made these remarks after a special meeting by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-hackers-who-pursued-uighurs-also-targeted-tibetans-researchers-251985">Tibetan</a> Parliament-in-Exile-at the Tibetan headquarters. 
 
During the meeting, the two-page resolution was adopted which outrightly rejected China's preposterous interference in the institution of Tibetan reincarnation and affirms the supreme authority of the Dalai Lama over Tibetan Buddhism. 
 
The official document further challenged <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tibetan-women-march-with-eye-patch-in-support-of-hong-kong-protestors-246964">China's advancing measures</a> of control over Tibetan Buddhism and expressed outright rejection and contempt of the Order Number&nbsp;5, a regulation issued in 2007 by China's State Administration of Religious Affairs (SARA) for the so-called "management of the reincarnation of living Buddhas". 
 
The meeting was attended by 340 Tibetan authorities representing the three pillars of Tibetan democracy: The Kashag (cabinet); Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile and Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission.

In a strong message to China, Tibetan government-in-exile has passed a resolution reaffirming that the successor of Dalai Lama will be chosen by the spiritual leader himself and no nation has locus standi on the issue.

In a strong message to China, Tibetan government-in-exile has passed a resolution reaffirming that the successor of Dalai Lama will be chosen by the spiritual leader himself and no nation has locus standi on the issue. "No nation, government, entity or any individual can claim to recognise the reincarnation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The final authority on decisions regarding the reincarnation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama rests indisputably and completely with His Holiness the Dalai Lama himself and the concerned authorities of the Gaden Phodrang Trust," Speaker Pema Jungney, Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, told ANI on Saturday. The resolution comes days ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping visit to India. Jungney made these remarks after a special meeting by Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile-at the Tibetan headquarters. During the meeting, the two-page resolution was adopted which outrightly rejected China's preposterous interference in the institution of Tibetan reincarnation and affirms the supreme authority of the Dalai Lama over Tibetan Buddhism. The official document further challenged China's advancing measures of control over Tibetan Buddhism and expressed outright rejection and contempt of the Order Number 5, a regulation issued in 2007 by China's State Administration of Religious Affairs (SARA) for the so-called "management of the reincarnation of living Buddhas". The meeting was attended by 340 Tibetan authorities representing the three pillars of Tibetan democracy: The Kashag (cabinet); Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile and Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission.

Tibetan government passes resolution on 'reincarnation of Dalai Lama'

The Chinese government in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/resolutely-opposed-to-us-legislation-on-tibet-china-185578">Tibet said it will boost numbers</a> and cut waiting times for foreign tourists visiting the highly restricted region, amid renewed pressure from the United States for greater access for US officials and journalists.

US President Donald Trump had <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-demands-access-for-us-diplomats-journalists-to-tibet-threatening-to-bar-chinese-officials-183865">signed into law the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act</a> in December, which seeks to press China to open the region by denying US entry for officials deemed responsible for restricting access to Tibet.

Beijing denounced the law at the time as interference in China's internal affairs, risking "serious harm" to ties with Washington.

China and the United States are engaged in talks to try to hammer out a deal to end a festering trade dispute that has threatened to sour the relationship across the board, including on issues such as security, influence and human rights.

The Tibetan government will shorten the time required for foreign tourists to gain access to the region by half and boost numbers by fifty per cent, Qizhala, chairman of the regional government, said in an annual work report published by the official Tibet Daily newspaper on Friday.

Non-Chinese visitors must apply for a special permit to travel to remote, mountainous Tibet, which is usually granted for tourists provided they travel with approved tour companies but rarely for journalists and diplomats.

Beijing has ruled Tibet with an iron fist since Chinese Communist Party troops marched into the region in 1950 in what it terms a "peaceful liberation".

Qizhala also pledged that the government in Tibet would "take a clear-cut stance in the fight against the Dalai clique", a reference to exiled spiritual leader the Dalai Lama.

"We must improve the monastery management and service mechanisms to defend the bottom line of Tibetan Buddhism not being manipulated by foreign forces," he said, and management of religious activities must prevent another "upsurge" of religion.

Rights groups and overseas activists say ethnic Tibetans face widespread restrictions under Chinese rule and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said in June conditions were "fast deteriorating".

This year marks the 60th anniversary of a Tibetan uprising against Chinese rule in 1959. Supporters of Tibetan independence and of the Dalai Lama have staged protests in the past to mark the uprising's anniversary, angering China.

China views the Dalai Lama, Tibet's Buddhist spiritual leader who fled into exile in India after the failed uprising, as a dangerous separatist.

The Nobel Peace laureate denies espousing violence and says he only wants genuine autonomy for Tibet.

The Chinese government in Tibet said it will boost numbers and cut waiting times for foreign tourists visiting the highly restricted region, amid renewed pressure from the United States for greater access for US officials and journalists.

The Chinese government in Tibet said it will boost numbers and cut waiting times for foreign tourists visiting the highly restricted region, amid renewed pressure from the United States for greater access for US officials and journalists. US President Donald Trump had signed into law the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act in December, which seeks to press China to open the region by denying US entry for officials deemed responsible for restricting access to Tibet. Beijing denounced the law at the time as interference in China's internal affairs, risking "serious harm" to ties with Washington. China and the United States are engaged in talks to try to hammer out a deal to end a festering trade dispute that has threatened to sour the relationship across the board, including on issues such as security, influence and human rights. The Tibetan government will shorten the time required for foreign tourists to gain access to the region by half and boost numbers by fifty per cent, Qizhala, chairman of the regional government, said in an annual work report published by the official Tibet Daily newspaper on Friday. Non-Chinese visitors must apply for a special permit to travel to remote, mountainous Tibet, which is usually granted for tourists provided they travel with approved tour companies but rarely for journalists and diplomats. Beijing has ruled Tibet with an iron fist since Chinese Communist Party troops marched into the region in 1950 in what it terms a "peaceful liberation". Qizhala also pledged that the government in Tibet would "take a clear-cut stance in the fight against the Dalai clique", a reference to exiled spiritual leader the Dalai Lama. "We must improve the monastery management and service mechanisms to defend the bottom line of Tibetan Buddhism not being manipulated by foreign forces," he said, and management of religious activities must prevent another "upsurge" of religion. Rights groups and overseas activists say ethnic Tibetans face widespread restrictions under Chinese rule and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said in June conditions were "fast deteriorating". This year marks the 60th anniversary of a Tibetan uprising against Chinese rule in 1959. Supporters of Tibetan independence and of the Dalai Lama have staged protests in the past to mark the uprising's anniversary, angering China. China views the Dalai Lama, Tibet's Buddhist spiritual leader who fled into exile in India after the failed uprising, as a dangerous separatist. The Nobel Peace laureate denies espousing violence and says he only wants genuine autonomy for Tibet.

Amid US pressure, China to cut  waiting time for foreign tourists visiting Tibet

Tibetan spiritual leader the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-change-in-our-position-on-the-dalai-lama-government-of-india-34491">Dalai Lama in a video message to a</a> Washington-based group said he was willing to remain within the People&#39;s Republic of China under a &quot;union&quot; similar to the spirit of the European Union.&nbsp;

&quot;I always, you see, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/doklam-standoff-not-very-serious-india-and-china-have-to-live-side-by-side-dalai-lama-18759">admire the spirit of the European Union</a>,&quot; the Dalai Lama said in a video chat, adding,&quot;Common interest is more important rather than one&#39;s own national interest. With that kind of concept, I am very much willing to remain within the People&#39;s Republic of China.&quot;

&quot;The Chinese word, &quot;gongheguo&quot; (republic), shows some kind of union is there,&quot; he added.

China has often attacked nations who have tried to open relations with the Dalai Lama. The Communist country views Tibet as an integral part of China and has often branded the spiritual leader as a &quot;splittist&quot; monk.

&quot;Among the Chinese hardliners, in their mind, it seems some kind of dilemma is there about their present policy - whether, you see, it can solve Tibetan problem or not,&quot; the Dalai Lama said.

The Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959 after an abortive uprising against Chinese rule and set up a government in exile in the foothills of Dharamsala, the Chinese troops had entered Tibet nine years earlier, ever since then the Communist regime has tried to marginalise the Dalai Lama from various international forum, and often taken digs against India.

China has often attacked nations who have tried to open relations with the Dalai Lama.

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama in a video message to a Washington-based group said he was willing to remain within the People's Republic of China under a "union" similar to the spirit of the European Union. "I always, you see, admire the spirit of the European Union," the Dalai Lama said in a video chat, adding,"Common interest is more important rather than one's own national interest. With that kind of concept, I am very much willing to remain within the People's Republic of China." "The Chinese word, "gongheguo" (republic), shows some kind of union is there," he added. China has often attacked nations who have tried to open relations with the Dalai Lama. The Communist country views Tibet as an integral part of China and has often branded the spiritual leader as a "splittist" monk. "Among the Chinese hardliners, in their mind, it seems some kind of dilemma is there about their present policy - whether, you see, it can solve Tibetan problem or not," the Dalai Lama said. The Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959 after an abortive uprising against Chinese rule and set up a government in exile in the foothills of Dharamsala, the Chinese troops had entered Tibet nine years earlier, ever since then the Communist regime has tried to marginalise the Dalai Lama from various international forum, and often taken digs against India.

I am very much willing to remain within China, says Dalai Lama