In an unprecedented visit to Tibet, President Xi Jinping addressed 20,000 attendees in Lhasa, underscoring the importance of unity and development as he celebrated the 60th anniversary of China's establishment of the autonomous region. This visit, which marks only the second time Xi has ventured into the heavily monitored territory as president, signals his intent to reinforce authority amid ongoing tensions regarding Tibetan identity and resistance to Chinese governance.
Xi Jinping's Call for Unity and Development in Historic Tibet Visit
Xi Jinping's Call for Unity and Development in Historic Tibet Visit
President Xi Jinping emphasizes political stability and progress during rare Lhasa visit marking Tibet's 60th anniversary under China’s rule.
Xi’s speech centered on maintaining political and social stability, emphasizing the need for ethnic unity and religious harmony without mention of the Dalai Lama, who has lived in exile since 1959. Two months following the Dalai Lama's declaration that his office would choose his own successor, Xi reiterated China’s stance that only the state has the authority over this matter, framing the Tibetan spiritual leader as a proponent of separatism.
Beijing has long claimed improvements in living standards for Tibetans under its rule while denying accusations of human rights violations and suppression of freedom. Human rights activists have countered these claims, asserting that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) systematically undermines Tibetan culture and identity.
As Xi toured Lhasa, state media presented the visit as a festive occasion, featuring him being welcomed by traditional Tibetan dancers. During his engagements with local officials, he advocated for promoting economic growth and cultural exchanges, as well as the integration of a state-sanctioned language and curriculum for Tibetan children, who are now required to attend government-run schools.
Furthermore, Xi outlined what the CCP views as four key initiatives for Tibet—ensuring stability, promoting development, protecting the environment, and strengthening border security. This visit is particularly notable, coinciding with the construction of the Motuo Hydropower Station on the Yarlung Tsangpo River, a project touted to be the largest dam in the world once completed, raising concerns about ecological impacts and regional hydro-control.
In summary, Xi's visit to Tibet reflects the CCP’s ongoing efforts to consolidate power in a region marked by historical dissent and persistent calls for greater autonomy, all while inviting international scrutiny and local resistance to its governance strategies.
Beijing has long claimed improvements in living standards for Tibetans under its rule while denying accusations of human rights violations and suppression of freedom. Human rights activists have countered these claims, asserting that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) systematically undermines Tibetan culture and identity.
As Xi toured Lhasa, state media presented the visit as a festive occasion, featuring him being welcomed by traditional Tibetan dancers. During his engagements with local officials, he advocated for promoting economic growth and cultural exchanges, as well as the integration of a state-sanctioned language and curriculum for Tibetan children, who are now required to attend government-run schools.
Furthermore, Xi outlined what the CCP views as four key initiatives for Tibet—ensuring stability, promoting development, protecting the environment, and strengthening border security. This visit is particularly notable, coinciding with the construction of the Motuo Hydropower Station on the Yarlung Tsangpo River, a project touted to be the largest dam in the world once completed, raising concerns about ecological impacts and regional hydro-control.
In summary, Xi's visit to Tibet reflects the CCP’s ongoing efforts to consolidate power in a region marked by historical dissent and persistent calls for greater autonomy, all while inviting international scrutiny and local resistance to its governance strategies.
