New Delhi, 10th July 2023: US Under Secretary Uzra Zeya, who serves as the Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues in the Biden administration, met with the 14th Dalai Lama in Delhi on Sunday. The meeting, accompanied by a high-level US delegation and senior officials from the Tibetan government in exile, is expected to draw a strong reaction from the Chinese government, which views it as interference in its internal affairs.
The Chinese Embassy spokesperson in Delhi, Wang Xiaojian, expressed strong criticism of the meeting, asserting that Tibetan affairs are solely China’s internal matters and that no external forces should interfere. Xiaojian questioned the role of the US Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues, labeling it as a politically manipulative move and a blatant offense against China’s internal affairs. The spokesperson emphasized that China vehemently opposes such actions and has never recognized the Tibetan government-in-exile as a legitimate organization.
In the past, similar meetings between US officials and the Dalai Lama have faced criticism from China. Zhao Lijian, a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, urged the US to respect its commitment that Tibet is a part of China and refrain from supporting separatist activities. However, the Dalai Lama, a Nobel laureate widely respected across religions, has consistently advocated for autonomy for Tibet rather than seeking independence from China.
During a press interaction in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, the Dalai Lama reiterated that Tibet is not seeking independence and has chosen to remain a part of the People’s Republic of China for many years. He also acknowledged that China is changing and expressed his willingness for contact with Chinese officials, indicating that they recognize the strength of the Tibetan people.
The United States has expressed support for the aspirations of the Tibetan people, including religious freedom, cultural preservation, and autonomy. However, China considers Tibet an integral part of its territory and opposes foreign involvement in Tibetan affairs. The meeting between US officials and the Dalai Lama aligns with previous engagements between senior US representatives and the Tibetan government in exile.
While efforts are being made to improve US-China relations, this meeting adds complexity to US diplomacy. Within a short span of 20 days, the US sent two senior officials, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, to China. These visits are seen as part of an outreach effort by the US to rebuild trust and maintain communication with the Chinese government.
Despite the geopolitical complexities surrounding Tibet, India has played a significant role in providing sanctuary to the Dalai Lama and supporting the Tibetan cause. As a home to a sizable Tibetan refugee community, India has historically upheld Tibetan culture and values while advocating for the rights and autonomy of the Tibetan people.
