China strongly opposed a U.S. law signed by President Joe Biden that urges Beijing to address Tibet’s demands for autonomy, vowing to “firmly defend” its interests. On Friday, President Biden signed the Tibet Dispute Act into law. This is a significant step in urging Beijing to hold talks with Tibetan leaders. These talks, which have been stalled since 2010, aim to secure a negotiated agreement on the Himalayan region and address the aspirations of the Tibetan people regarding their historical, cultural, religious, and linguistic identity.
The law, according to China’s foreign ministry, ‘grossly interferes in China’s domestic affairs, undermines China’s interests, and sends a severely wrong signal to the ‘Tibet independence’ forces.’ This potential impact is a cause for concern for China.
Although Washington recognises Tibet as a part of China, the law appears to question that position, analysts say. The U.S. has long supported the rights of the Tibetan people to practice their religion and culture, accusing China of human rights violations in the remote region bordering India.
“The U.S. must not implement the Act,” the China’s ministry said. “If the U.S. continues down the wrong path, China will take resolute measures to firmly defend its sovereignty, security and development interests.”
There has been considerable attention on Tibet-China issues, particularly regarding the Dalai Lama’s recovery from a medical procedure and his recent 89th birthday. The exiled spiritual leader has stated that he intends to address questions about his succession around his 90th birthday, while China maintains that it will select his successor.
Team BharatShakti
(With Reuters Input)
