The Dalai Lama with former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other members of the US Congressional delegation at his residence in Dharamsala. (PTI)
China’s Foreign Ministry said on Thursday that the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of exiled Tibetan Buddhism, must “thoroughly revise” his political views as a condition for the resumption of contacts with China’s central government.
Formal talks between China and the Dalai Lama, who fled to India after a failed Tibetan uprising against Chinese rule in 1959, and his representatives have been stalled since 2010.
“With regard to contacts and negotiations between the Chinese central government and the 14th Dalai Lama, our policy is consistent and clear,” said Lin Jian, a spokesman for China’s foreign ministry.
“What is important is that the 14th Dalai Lama must fundamentally reflect on and thoroughly revise his political views,” Lin said at the ministry’s regular press conference.
The Dalai Lama stepped down as political leader of the Tibetan government-in-exile in 2011, a step that Beijing does not recognise and sees as a violation of China’s constitution.
But China remains resentful of the Dalai Lama’s interactions with foreign officials, including former U.S. presidents, even though the Dalai Lama has said he does not seek independence for Tibet.
At 88, he remains the spiritual leader of Tibetans, although China sees him as a dangerous separatist in monk’s robes.
US lawmakers are now calling on President Joe Biden to sign a bill aimed at pressuring China to secure a negotiated, peaceful settlement on the Tibet issue.
A delegation of US lawmakers who met with the Dalai Lama in India on Wednesday said they would not allow China to influence the selection of his successor.
Washington recognises Tibet as part of China, but analysts say the bill appears to call into question that status.
Beijing has rejected the Tibet Issue Resolution Bill, saying Tibet is a part of China and will not tolerate interference from outside forces.
“We urge the United States to fully recognize the importance and sensitivity of Tibet-related issues and sincerely respect China’s core interests,” Lin said.
“We should stick to our promises on the disability issue, refrain from any form of contact with the Dalai clique, and stop sending wrong messages to the outside world.”
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