Chinese President Xi Jinping recently made a rare visit to Tibet, underlining Beijing’s determination to maintain control over the region. During his trip, Xi praised the government’s efforts in crushing “separatism” and stressed the importance of unity among Tibetans, as China faces mounting uncertainty over the future leadership of Tibetan Buddhism.
Xi’s Visit Underlines Strategic Importance of Tibet
The timing of Xi’s visit is significant. The aging Dalai Lama currently lives in exile, and the question of his successor looms large. Beijing wants to ensure that its choice for the next spiritual leader will be accepted by Tibetans, which could spark tension and resistance.
Xi’s presence in Tibet sends a message of strength and reflects China’s ongoing efforts to solidify its authority in the region. With the Dalai Lama’s succession on the horizon, the world is watching how Beijing will manage this sensitive transition and the implications it may have for the region’s stability and Tibetan cultural identity.
Sources:
CNN: Xi Jinping makes rare visit to Tibet to showcase control as Dalai Lama succession looms
