President Xi Jinping made a rare appearance in Tibet, addressing a crowd of 20,000 in Lhasa to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the region's incorporation into China. This marked only his second official visit to the highly regulated area, reflecting his commitment to asserting control amid long-standing Tibetan dissent against Beijing's rule.
During his speech, Xi emphasized the necessity of political stability, social harmony, and ethnic unity for governing and developing Tibet, as part of an official summary released afterwards. Notably absent was any mention of the Dalai Lama, who fled to India in 1959 and has since been a prominent symbol of Tibetan resistance and a voice for genuine self-rule within China.
The timing of Xi's visit follows the Dalai Lama's recent announcement that his office would select his successor, a move contested by Beijing, which asserts sole authority over such decisions. The 90-year-old spiritual leader has always advocated for a "middle way" approach towards achieving autonomy for Tibet, yet Beijing views him as a separatist figure.
While China contends that Tibetans can freely practice their religion, human rights advocates claim that the government's policies are systematically eroding their cultural identity. Reports from Tibetan monasteries indicate a suppression of human rights and ongoing oppression enforced by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
Xi's visit was extensively covered in state media, touted as a triumph and showcasing cultural events with traditional Tibetan dancers welcoming him. He convened with local CCP leaders, highlighting the goals of fostering economic growth, regulating religious practices, and promoting a unified national language.
Additionally, Xi's agenda included the unveiling of the new dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo River - projected to be the largest hydroelectric facility globally. Though the construction is presented as a means to generate clean energy and advance local prosperity, concerns arise over its potential impact on water control in downstream regions like India and Bangladesh.
As Xi’s tour concluded, the implications of his visit for Tibet's governance and the ongoing geopolitical dynamics in the region remained subjects of keen observation.
