Xi Jinping Meets Panchen Rinpoche in Historic Diplomatic Visit

Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of ethnic unity and religious harmony during a high-profile meeting with Panchen Erdeni Chos-kyi rGyal-po at Zhongnanhai in Beijing on Friday. The meeting, which took place in the political heart of the Chinese capital, underscored official efforts to promote stability, development, and progress in the Xizang Autonomous Region.

As general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, Xi highlighted the crucial role that religious figures such as Panchen Rinpoche play in upholding national unity. During the visit, Panchen Rinpoche presented Xi with a hada—a traditional Tibetan silk scarf symbolizing purity and auspiciousness—before briefing the president on his recent studies and activities.

Xi Jinping congratulated Panchen Rinpoche on his achievements in various fields and expressed hope that he would continue the tradition of Tibetan Buddhism's loyalty to the country. Xi called on Panchen Rinpoche to deepen his religious studies, reinforce the principle that religions in China must be Chinese in orientation, and make further contributions to Xizang’s modernization.

The president stressed the necessity for all religious communities to integrate with Chinese culture and to contribute to the advancement of social and economic development in Xizang. He said building a strong sense of community among all ethnic groups remains a key priority for the central government.

In response, Panchen Rinpoche reaffirmed his commitment to the leadership of the Communist Party of China and pledged to safeguard national unity and ethnic solidarity. He reiterated his intention to continue promoting the localization of religion within China and to take an active role in the modernization of Xizang.

Xi was accompanied by Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and Cai Qi, director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee. Both are members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, reflecting the significance of the meeting within China’s political leadership.