A bipartisan US congressional delegation led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul recently visited Dharamshala to meet with the Dalai Lama. This visit, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, was marked by discussions on the ‘Resolve Tibet Act’, a bill passed by Congress aimed at encouraging Beijing to re-engage with Tibetan leaders for a peaceful resolution of their governance dispute.
Upon arrival at Kangra airport, the delegation was welcomed by officials of the Central Tibetan Administration. McCaul expressed his enthusiasm for the meeting with the Dalai Lama and confirmed President Joe Biden’s intention to sign the ‘Resolve Tibet Act’. He emphasized that the United States stands with the people of Tibet.
The ‘Resolve Tibet Act’, which passed the House with a 391-26 vote and had previously been approved by the Senate, aims to counter Beijing’s disinformation about Tibet’s history, people, and institutions. However, China has reacted strongly to the US delegation’s visit and the proposed legislation. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian described the Dalai Lama as a political exile engaged in anti-China activities under the guise of religion. Lin urged the US to honor its commitments to China, avoid contact with the Dalai Lama, and stop sending “wrong signals” regarding Tibet.
The visit and the impending signing of the ‘Resolve Tibet Act’ underscore the ongoing and contentious issue of Tibet’s status and highlight the international community’s role in advocating for Tibetan autonomy and cultural preservation.
