China Labels Dalai Lama Succession Thorn in India-China Ties Ahead of Jaishankar Visit

Ahead of Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's visit to China, tensions between China and India persist over the succession of the Dalai Lama, which China insists is an internal matter that brooks no external interference. Chinese officials have stated that issues related to Tibet, or 'Xizang' as China refers to it, remain a significant thorn in bilateral relations and have criticized Indian ministers and analysts for making remarks supporting the Dalai Lama's autonomy in succession matters. China emphasizes its control over religious affairs involving national interests and views the Dalai Lama's declarations as anti-China separatist activities. Indian support for the Dalai Lama and the hosting of a Tibetan exile community complicate diplomatic ties further. The upcoming visit by Jaishankar, the highest-level contact since the 2020 border clashes, is seen as a delicate step toward normalizing relations despite these ongoing disputes. Both sides continue to navigate a complex diplomatic landscape shaped by historical grievances and differing views on Tibet's status.