Beijing (Eurotoday Newspaper) – China’s foreign ministry said on Tuesday that the United States was in “no position” to point fingers at the country on Tibet-related issues, urging Washington to fully recognise the “sensitivity” of the matter.
Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning commented on U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio‘s statement celebrating the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday on Sunday, following a week of festivities organised by his supporters.
Why does China reject the U.S. stance on Tibet?
On Tuesday, Mao stated during a regular press conference that the Dalai Lama is a political exile involved in anti-China separatist activities under the guise of religion. He further asserted that the Dalai Lama has no authority to represent the Tibetan people or determine the region’s future.
“We urge the U.S. to fully recognise the importance and sensitivity of Tibet-related issues and the anti-China separatist nature of the Dalai clique,”
She stated.
Beijing states that it upholds a policy of religious freedom and asserts the right to approve the Dalai Lama’s succession, a practice dating back to imperial times.
What message did Marco Rubio send to the Dalai Lama?
Rubio had sent a message stating that the Dalai Lama continues to inspire others by embodying a powerful message of “unity, peace, and compassion.”
“We support efforts to preserve Tibetans’ distinct linguistic, cultural, and religious heritage, including their ability to freely choose and venerate religious leaders without interference,”
He also said.
Who has the authority to choose the Dalai Lama?
Last week, the Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leader reassured followers that he would be reincarnated after his death. A non-profit organisation he established will have the exclusive authority to recognise his reincarnation, challenging China’s claim that it will select his successor.
Rubio, known for criticising China’s policies on Tibet, called in May for the “immediate release” of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, the six-year-old designated by the Dalai Lama as the 11th Panchen Lama- Tibetan Buddhism’s Second-highest leader- who vanished in May 1995.
A few months afterwards, the Chinese government designated Gyaltsen Norbu as the Panchen Lama, taking over from the Dalai Lama’s selected candidate. The Panchen Lama is a high-ranking Buddhist monk responsible for helping to identify the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama.
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