Xizang leader rejects Dalai's interference

The Xizang autonomous region will continue promoting national, civic and rule of law education despite repeated criticism and interference from the 14th Dalai Lama and his followers, the region's chairman said.

The importance of such education is widely recognized in both Eastern and Western countries, as well as across China, Xizang Chairman Gama Cedain said during a panel discussion with the Xizang delegation at the ongoing annual session of the 14th National People's Congress in Beijing.

"This work aligns with the interests of the people and is welcomed by the public, including monks and nuns," Gama Cedain said. "But it has been smeared by the 14th Dalai Lama and his followers."

He accused Western anti-China forces of supporting the Dalai Lama and attempting to undermine these efforts.

"But we won't be swayed," he said.

Under the leadership of the central government and with nationwide support, Xizang has maintained stability and continued development, the chairman said.

"This ensures a stronger sense of security, greater satisfaction and a better quality of life for our people."

Gama Cedain also highlighted the region's economic and cultural progress, noting that as the autonomous region marks its 60th anniversary this year, it has seen no major violent incidents for 17 consecutive years.

He also expressed gratitude for support from various provinces and sectors after a 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck Dingri county in Shigatse city in January, killing 126 people.

Improved infrastructure in the high-altitude region has helped accelerate disaster response, he said.

"Thanks to the airport in Dingri, which began operations at the end of 2022, relief forces reached the epicenter just 30 minutes after the quake," the chairman said. "Such a rapid response would have been unimaginable in the past."

Wang Fanghong, a deputy to the Xizang delegation and mayor of Shigatse, said reconstruction began on Wednesday, demonstrating the advantages of China's socialist system.

Classes also resumed on Wednesday for all 47,000 students from 243 schools damaged in the quake, he said.

"We will ensure new homes meet residents' expectations and incorporate traditional designs," Wang said. "The planning and design work is nearly complete, and all those who lost homes in the quake will move into new housing by the end of October."

cuijia@chinadaily.com.cn