Chinese President Emphasizes Ethnic Cohesion During Panchen Rinpoche Visit
President Xi Jinping met with Panchen Erdeni Chos-kyi rGyal-po at Beijing's Zhongnanhai leadership compound on Friday, calling for strengthened efforts to promote ethnic unity and religious harmony in Xizang Autonomous Region. The meeting underscores China's commitment to social stability in its southwestern border regions.
Xi, who also serves as General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, highlighted the importance of maintaining 'stability, development, and progress' in Xizang. The Panchen Rinpoche, one of Tibetan Buddhism's most senior figures, has historically played a key role in bridging cultural and religious communities.
Strategic Dialogue for Regional Development
Analysts suggest the meeting reflects Beijing's approach to integrating traditional religious leadership with modern governance frameworks. The Xizang Autonomous Region has seen increased infrastructure investment and poverty alleviation efforts in recent years, with GDP growth averaging 9% annually since 2015.
This high-level dialogue comes as China intensifies efforts to promote national unity ahead of key political milestones. The Panchen Rinpoche's public engagements have increasingly focused on youth education and cultural preservation initiatives endorsed by central authorities.
