President Xi Jinping made a surprise visit to Tibet, only his second as China’s leader.

By Aniket Chakraborty Aug 22, 2025 Arrow WORLD NEWS

Appearing before 20,000 people in Lhasa, he praised Tibet’s struggle against separatism.

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His comments stressed political stability, ethnic unity, and religious harmony.

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Notably absent was any mention of the Dalai Lama, who has lived in exile since 1959.

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Xi’s visit followed the Dalai Lama’s statement that his office, not China, would choose his successor.

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State media framed the visit as a celebration of progress under Chinese rule.

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Xi also pushed for Mandarin education and tighter control over Tibetan Buddhism.

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His speech outlined four goals for Tibet: stability, development, environment, and border strength.

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The visit coincided with construction of the world’s largest dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo.

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Critics fear the dam could give Beijing leverage over water flows to India and Bangladesh.

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