A bipartisan delegation of United States lawmakers recently met with the Dalai Lama at his residence in Dharamshala, India, causing tension with China, which sees the spiritual leader as a separatist. The meeting took place amid ongoing talks between Washington and Beijing, following years of strained relations due to various issues including trade disputes and military tensions.
The delegation, led by Rep. Michael McCaul and including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, visited the Dalai Lama, who has lived in India since fleeing Tibet in 1959. The lawmakers also met with officials from the Tibetan government-in-exile, advocating for more autonomy for Tibet, a move that Beijing strongly opposes.
After the meeting, the lawmakers addressed a crowd gathered at a monastery near the Dalai Lama’s residence, highlighting the Resolve Tibet Act recently passed by the U.S. Congress. The bill aims to facilitate dialogue between the Dalai Lama and Chinese officials in hopes of finding a peaceful resolution to the Tibet-China conflict. Pelosi emphasized the importance of the bill as a message to China regarding Tibet’s freedom, while McCaul reaffirmed American support for Tibetan self-determination.
China swiftly condemned the visit and the passing of the bill, warning the U.S. not to support Tibetan independence. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson stated that the 14th Dalai Lama is engaging in anti-China separatist activities, urging the U.S. to refrain from any contact with the Dalai Lama. The Chinese government threatened “resolute measures” if the bill is signed into law by President Biden.
The Dalai Lama, on the other hand, has denied being a separatist and claims to advocate for autonomy and the preservation of Tibetan culture. Despite Beijing’s objections, the spiritual leader has a history of engaging with U.S. officials, except for former President Trump. He is scheduled to travel to the U.S. for medical treatment, raising questions about potential meetings with American officials.
While India recognizes Tibet as part of China, it hosts Tibetan exiles and supports their cause. Beijing maintains that Tibetans have benefitted under Chinese rule, urging the U.S. not to interfere in Tibetan affairs. The situation remains complex, with tensions between the U.S., China, and Tibet persisting.