In a statement that has reignited discussions about the future of Tibet, China’s Foreign Ministry expressed hope that the Dalai Lama can “return to the right path,” signaling openness to dialogue under specific conditions. This comes as the exiled spiritual leader, who turns 90 this year, navigates the twilight of his life.
The Dalai Lama, the revered leader of Tibetan Buddhism, has lived in exile in India since fleeing Tibet in 1959 after a failed uprising against Chinese control. His desire to return to Tibet before his death has been a long-standing issue in Sino-Tibetan relations.
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During a regular press conference on Monday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that China is willing to engage in discussions regarding the Dalai Lama’s future, provided he renounces any advocacy for splitting the “motherland.” This condition was articulated in response to inquiries following the death of Gyalo Thondup, the Dalai Lama’s elder brother and former unofficial envoy to China, who passed away at 97 in Kalimpong, India, on Saturday.
Guo emphasized that the Dalai Lama must publicly acknowledge Tibet and Taiwan as inalienable parts of China, governed solely by the People’s Republic of China. This stance reflects China’s long-held position against any perceived separatist activities.
The Dalai Lama relinquished his political leadership role in 2011, passing the baton to a democratically elected Tibetan government-in-exile, which China does not recognize. Official dialogues between Beijing and representatives of the Dalai Lama have been on hold for years, leaving many questions unanswered about Tibet’s future governance and spiritual leadership.
The impending 90th birthday of the Dalai Lama in July has brought the matter of his succession to the forefront. China maintains that it has the authority to select the next Dalai Lama, a claim contested by the current Dalai Lama, who asserts that the choice of his reincarnation should adhere to traditional Tibetan Buddhist practices.
Adding complexity to the situation, the Dalai Lama has announced the release of a new book in March, which coincides with the anniversary of the 1959 uprising. The book is expected to provide a framework for Tibet’s future “even after I am gone,” potentially addressing the contentious issue of his succession.
This latest development underscores the intricate dance of diplomacy, faith, and politics surrounding one of the world’s oldest religious leadership systems, set against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Key Points:
China’s Hope for the Dalai Lama: The Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed a desire for the Dalai Lama to “return to the right path,” indicating an openness to discussions about his future.
Conditions for Dialogue: Talks are contingent upon the Dalai Lama abandoning any efforts towards splitting the “motherland,” according to spokesperson Guo Jiakun.
Death of Gyalo Thondup: The statement came in response to the death of the Dalai Lama’s elder brother, Gyalo Thondup, who served as an unofficial envoy to China.
Acknowledgment of Chinese Sovereignty: China expects the Dalai Lama to recognize Tibet and Taiwan as inalienable parts of China, under the governance of the People’s Republic of China.
Current Status of Talks: Official talks between the Dalai Lama’s representatives and China have been stalled, with no formal political recognition from Beijing for the Tibetan government-in-exile.
Succession Concerns: With the Dalai Lama approaching his 90th birthday, the issue of his successor becomes pressing. China claims the right to appoint the next Dalai Lama, while he plans to clarify his reincarnation or succession.
Upcoming Book: The Dalai Lama is set to release a new book in March, which will outline a framework for Tibet’s future post his tenure, aligning with the anniversary of the 1959 uprising.
