Xi Jinping Meets Panchen Rinpoche in Historic Diplomatic Visit

Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the need for continued efforts toward ethnic unity, religious harmony, and regional stability during a significant meeting on Friday with Panchen Erdeni Chos-kyi rGyal-po, one of Tibetan Buddhism’s most influential spiritual leaders. The meeting, held at Zhongnanhai in Beijing, highlighted the central government’s ongoing focus on the development and progress of the southwest region known as the Xizang Autonomous Region.

Xi stressed the importance of promoting unity among all ethnic groups and ensuring the stability necessary for the prosperity of Xizang. He called on Panchen Rinpoche to continue fostering collaboration and mutual respect among different communities, underlining that these efforts were crucial for Xizang’s sustainable growth and for strengthening the bonds within the broader Chinese nation.

Panchen Rinpoche honored Xi Jinping by presenting a hada, a traditional Tibetan silk scarf symbolizing purity and good fortune. During the meeting, he also updated the president on his recent studies and current undertakings, reflecting both spiritual advancement and dedication to community service. Xi congratulated Panchen Rinpoche on his personal progress and urged him to maintain the noble tradition of Tibetan Buddhism in loving the country and defending national unity.

In his remarks, Xi called for deeper religious studies and an active role from Panchen Rinpoche in nurturing a shared sense of national identity. The president reiterated the principle that religions practiced in China must be aligned with the country’s unique historical and cultural context, and encouraged further promotion of modernization efforts within Xizang.

Panchen Rinpoche responded with a renewed pledge to uphold the leadership of the Communist Party of China, safeguard national unity, and advance ethnic solidarity. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that Tibetan Buddhism operates in harmony with the broader national direction, pledging to contribute to both spiritual and economic modernization in Xizang.

The meeting was attended by senior officials including 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 leaders accompanied President Xi, demonstrating the high-level attention accorded to this engagement with one of the nation’s prominent religious figures.