The Dalai Lama is expected to outline a succession framework during a key religious gathering this week, rejecting China’s claim to control his reincarnation and stressing Tibetan autonomy.
The Dalai Lama is expected to outline a framework for his succession during a three-day religious gathering ahead of his 90th birthday, a move likely to provoke Beijing.
Speaking on Monday, the Tibetan spiritual leader said, “There will be some kind of a framework within which we can talk about the continuation of the institution of the Dalai Lamas.”
China, which views the Dalai Lama as a separatist, insists it will choose his successor. But the 14th Dalai Lama, who lives in exile in Dharamshala, India, has said any Beijing-appointed successor should be rejected.
“This institution must survive not just for Tibet, but for all humanity,” said Dolma Tsering Teykhang, deputy speaker of the Tibetan parliament-in-exile.
The Dalai Lama has hinted that his reincarnation could occur outside China, possibly in India.
Over 100 Buddhist leaders are attending the conference, the first since 2019. Hollywood actor Richard Gere will also be present.
India’s minister Kiren Rijiju is expected at the Dalai Lama’s birthday celebrations on July 6.