By Tenzin Nyidon
China on Tuesday issued a warning of “resolute measures” to US President Joe Biden, urging him not to sign the recently passed Resolve Tibet Act. into law. The warning came amidst heightened tensions following the visit of a high-level U.S. congressional delegation to Dharamshala, where they met with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and officials from the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA).
Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian addressed reporters in Beijing, “Anyone or any force who attempts to destabilise Xizang to contain or suppress China will not succeed. The US should not sign the bill. China will take resolute measures to defend its sovereignty, security, and development interests.”
“We are gravely concerned over the relevant reports and urge the US side to fully recognise the anti-China separatist nature of the Dalai group, honour the commitments the US has made to China on issues related to Xizang, have no contact with the Dalai group in any form, and stop sending the wrong signal to the world. The 14th Dalai Lama is not a pure religious figure, but a political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the cloak of religion,” Jian told a media briefing.
Despite these warnings, Michael McCaul, the Republican Chairman of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, led a seven-member bipartisan Congressional delegation to Dharamshala. During a ceremony organized by the CTA, McCaul reiterated their unwavering support for the Tibetan cause. The delegation also met with the Dalai Lama at his residence.
In his speech, McCaul disclosed that the delegation received a warning letter from the Chinese government before their visit. “Just this week, our delegation received a letter from the CCP warning us not to come here. They repeated their false claim that Tibet has been a part of China since the 13th century. But we did not let the CCP intimidate us, and that is why we are here today,” McCaul asserted.
When asked if President Biden will sign the bill, McCaul confidently responded, “Yes, he will.” The Resolve Tibet Act, which passed the House of Representatives in February 2024 and the Senate in May awaits President Joe Biden’s signature to become law following minor amendments.
