The visit by a seven-member US delegation to India and the announcement of support for Tibet’s independence has sparked fresh diplomatic tension and led to strong reactions from China.
The delegation, led by Michael McCaul, Chairman of the US House Foreign Affairs Committee, arrived in Dharamshala on Tuesday (June 18, 2024) amidst a warm welcome from the Tibetan community.
The visit took a dramatic turn when news emerged that the lower house of the US Parliament had passed a resolution advocating for Tibet’s recognition as an independent country. It was further stated US President Joe Biden is expected to sign the resolution soon.
In Dharamshala, Michael McCaul and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi addressed the Tibetan government-in-exile, publicly endorsing Tibet’s independence. They reiterated their support during discussions with Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama. The Dalai Lama, who is due to visit the US for medical treatment, received the delegation ahead of his departure.
China swiftly reacted to these developments, expressing strong disapproval through its embassy in Delhi. The Chinese embassy issued a statement condemning the US delegation’s actions, describing the Dalai Lama as a “political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the guise of religion”.
China emphasised that Tibet, referred to as Xizang by the Chinese government, was an “integral part of its territory and any external interference is unwelcome”.
The embassy called upon the US to uphold its commitments regarding Tibet and refrain from sending what it termed as “wrong signals” to the international community. China warned of taking strict measures to protect its sovereignty and security interests, asserting that Tibet and Xinjiang are internal matters that should not be interfered with by external forces.
The US delegation’s visit, ostensibly aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and cultural exchanges, has instead stirred fresh diplomatic tensions between Washington and Beijing. As the delegation prepares to meet Indian officials and American businessmen, all eyes remain on the repercussions of their declarations regarding Tibet’s independence and China’s stern responses.
