Xi Jinping, the leader of China, made an unusual trip to Tibet—his second visit in over a decade—on Wednesday, to mark the 60th anniversary of China’s takeover of the region.
The event featured a military and police parade adorned with communist phrases, alongside a stern warning that “separatism” would be dealt with harshly.
“To effectively govern, stabilize, and develop Tibet, we must ensure political stability, social stability, ethnic unity, and religious harmony,” Xi asserted.
A video released by the government showed crowds in traditional attire dancing with flowers while banging drums, as Xi walked along a red carpet. Along his route, there were countless flags and traditional white Tibetan scarves, according to reports from Radio Free Asia.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxfj9r0bywg
Speeches were delivered in front of Potala Palace, once the home of the Dalai Lama, who fled in 1959. The speeches highlighted the supposed economic progress China has brought to what is termed the “autonomous region of Tibet,” mingled with aggressive warnings to Tibetans and outsiders that China has always claimed ownership of Tibet and will not tolerate criticism regarding its treatment of the Tibetan people.
“The question of Tibet is an internal matter for China, and outside parties are not welcome to intervene. Any attempts to disrupt national unity and undermine Tibet’s stability are destined to fail,” stated a senior advisor to Xi, echoing the day’s core message.
This advisor emphasized that the “great achievements of Tibet’s autonomous region” over the last six decades were made possible only under the guidance of the Communist Party.
“Tibet has reached its most favorable developmental phase, experiencing significant changes and delivering real benefits to various ethnic groups,” he added.
The parade outside Potala Palace showcased local cultural performances, along with floats and Communist banners, complemented by intimidating formations of soldiers and law enforcement.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdz3rrzvqye
Observers noted a sense of unease surrounding the anniversary. Xi’s last visit to Tibet was only five years prior, and a representative for the Dalai Lama in Washington suggested that “things aren’t as harmonious in Tibet as Beijing would like to portray.”
“Despite over 60 years of regulations imposed by the Communist Party, Tibet is still largely a police state and arguably the most closely monitored area in all of China,” remarked Chedup to Radio Free Asia.
“The celebrations of Xi’s visit and the history of Tibet under Chinese rule lack any genuine historical legitimacy,” he stated.
Robert Burnett, a Tibetan studies scholar in London, expressed his surprise at Xi’s decision to go to Tibet, noting the “existential uncertainty” within the Communist Party regarding issues of religion and identity, despite their efforts to manage these aspects.
The BBC highlighted that Xi’s surprise appearance in Tibet might not have been entirely comfortable for the veteran leader. Interestingly, Xi chose not to mention the Dalai Lama during his visit. The Dalai Lama, currently residing in India and recently turned 90, had in July announced his plans for succession, aiming to bypass any influence from Chinese authorities on who should lead his faith.
The Chinese Communist Party asserts its authority to approve the next Dalai Lama, viewing the current office holder as someone who has incited insurrection against Chinese governance.
Recent reports indicate that the area surrounding Tibet has been subjected to heavy surveillance, with security forces present and constant monitoring. Investigations have revealed that large parts of Tibet have become akin to high-security institutions, where freedom of expression is heavily curtailed, and even mentioning the Dalai Lama is effectively forbidden.
Recently, there have been reports of authorities expelling Buddhist monks and nuns from religious institutions and sending Tibetan children to “re-education” boarding schools. There are also efforts to impose Chinese names on Tibetan residents and prevent international reporters from accessing the region.
