China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, strongly criticized the United States on Wednesday for imposing visa restrictions on Chinese officials over alleged forcible assimilation of children in boarding schools in China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. Wang emphasized that the US should reflect on its own actions instead of portraying itself as a judge and intervening in other countries’ internal affairs under the pretext of “human rights.”
Wang stated that China vehemently opposes and condemns the illegal sanctions imposed by the US, as they infringe upon China’s sovereignty and interfere in its internal matters. He stressed that the human rights situation in Xizang is at its historical best, supported by international observations. The region has witnessed economic growth, societal harmony, and cultural heritage preservation. All ethnic groups in the region, including religious and linguistic freedoms, enjoy full protection.
Wang pointed out that the boarding schools in Xizang are a testament to human rights and cultural heritage protection, and the allegations of forced assimilation are unfounded. He contrasted the situation with the US history, highlighting incidents of racial discrimination and the consequences of the US’s military interventions in various countries.
Li Haidong, a professor at the China Foreign Affairs University, explained that the US’s visa restrictions aim to support separatist forces and fuel accusations against China’s governance. He noted that the US is exploiting Xizang-related issues to destabilize China and prevent it from challenging US leadership.
Wang warned the US to respect China’s sovereignty, refrain from meddling in its internal affairs, and withdraw its decision. He emphasized that Xizang-related matters are China’s internal affairs and will not tolerate foreign interference. If the US persists in its actions, China will respond resolutely.