Czech President Pavel Meets Dalai Lama, Affirms Tibetan Autonomy Support in Ladakh

Czech Republic President Petr Pavel made a historic visit to Ladakh, where he met with the Tibetan spiritual leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and leaders of the Central Tibetan Administration, expressing support for the Middle Way Approach advocating genuine autonomy for Tibet. The visit included a tour of Thiksey Monastery and engagement with the Tibetan community in Leh, highlighting cultural and spiritual ties. President Pavel acknowledged the Dalai Lama’s past visits to the Czech Republic and emphasized a mutually beneficial resolution to the Tibet-China conflict. However, China strongly condemned the visit, accusing the Czech President of interfering in its internal affairs and reaffirming its stance against any official contacts with the Dalai Lama or the Tibetan government in exile, which it labels as separatist. The Chinese Embassy urged the Czech Republic to adhere to the One-China policy and prevent any actions that could support Tibetan independence. This visit marks the first time a sitting head of state has met the Dalai Lama in India, signaling increased international attention to the Tibetan cause.