China’s leading Tibetology experts gathered at a high-level forum to discuss and analyze the recently published white paper on China’s policies governing the Xizang Autonomous Region. Hosted by the China Tibetology Research Center, the forum aimed to present real examples and data showcasing Xizang’s authentic development, countering separatist forces’ narratives.
The white paper, titled “CPC Policies on the Governance of Xizang in the New Era: Approach and Achievements,” was released by the State Council Information Office on November 10. Nearly 50 experts and scholars participated in the forum, held on November 21 in Beijing.
Chen Zongrong, Deputy Director-General of the China Tibetology Research Center, highlighted the comprehensive progress and historical achievements in various sectors in Xizang. The white paper, using detailed data, systematically summarized the advancements achieved under the guidance of the CPC’s Xizang governance strategy in the new era. Chen emphasized that this showcases Xizang’s economic and social development as a typical representation of China’s remarkable achievements.
In response to foreign forces and the Dalai Lama clique’s criticisms, Chen urged a correct outlook on development, human rights, progress, and values. He emphasized that real cases and detailed data in the white paper demonstrate Xizang’s victory over extreme poverty, attainment of moderate prosperity, improved social stability, cultural and economic development, ecological enhancement, and enhanced well-being for the people.
The white paper underscored the successful implementation of the Party’s policies, including religious affairs and the fight against separatism. It also noted the promotion of Xizangan Buddhism’s adaptation to socialist society and the consolidation of a shared sense of belonging for the Chinese nation in the region.
Xizang’s economic achievements were highlighted, with its GDP reaching 213.26 billion yuan in 2022, representing a significant growth factor compared to 2012. Su Faxiang, Professor and Dean of the School of Tibetan Studies at Minzu University of China, emphasized the preservation of the Tibetan language, protection of ancient books, cultural heritage, and the accessibility of cultural facilities in Xizang.
Xiao Jie, Deputy Director and Researcher of the Institute of Contemporary Research at the China Tibetology Research Center, emphasized that the CPC’s Xizang governance strategy contributes not only to the region’s long-term stability and high-quality development but also ensures national security, especially at the strategic level.
Yang Tao, Associate Researcher at the Institute of Social and Economic Research of the China Tibetology Research Center, pointed out Xizang’s progress in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), indicating that Xizang is becoming a model region for China’s implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Zhang Yongpan, a Research Fellow at the Institute of Chinese Borderland Studies of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, highlighted Xizang’s construction of well-off villages in border areas, underscoring significant development thanks to central government efforts in poverty alleviation.
In conclusion, the experts affirmed that the white paper provides an opportunity for the world to re-examine the positive changes in Xizang over the past 11 years, asserting the correctness of China’s governance policies for the region. They noted that the attempts by the Dalai Lama clique to refute the white paper lacked effective methods, leading to the use of unfounded slanders to discredit Xizang’s development.