Recently, China has tightened its visa restrictions for US individuals seen to be behaving negatively towards Tibet-related issues. This move is perceived as a retaliation in response to the US’s visa restrictions on certain Chinese officials. These changes unfold against a backdrop of strained Sino-US relations, with friction arising from trade disputes, technology rivalry, Covid-19 pandemic, and Hong Kong’s national security law.
Understanding Tibet
Tibet is located on the Tibetan Plateau in Asia, comprising 2.4 million km2 or nearly a quarter of China’s land area. Known as the conventional homeland of the Tibetan people and other ethnic communities, Tibet sits at an average elevation of 4,900 metres, making it the highest region globally. Mount Everest, the pinnacle of this high-altitude location, towers 8,848 m above sea level.
Tibet and China: A Historic Overview
China has consistently claimed that Tibet has been part of its territory for many centuries. However, it has forbidden foreign journalists from reporting in Tibet since 2008 following a wave of protests. From 1912 to the creation of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, modern-day Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) was not controlled by any Chinese government. Many Tibetans argue they enjoyed substantial autonomy during this period and view China’s reign, which began after the occupation of TAR by the People’s Liberation Army in 1950, as unwarranted interference. Post the Uprising in 1959, China has gradually tightened its control over Tibet. The Dalai Lama, Tibet’s exiled spiritual leader, oversees the Tibetan government-in-exile based in Dharamsala, India.
US Concerns and Approach
The US accuses China of systematically obstructing access to the TAR and other Tibetan regions, hampering visits by US officials, journalists, and tourists. This is in contrast to the much broader access Chinese citizens enjoy in the US. In line with the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act of 2018, the US has imposed visa restrictions on Chinese government officials involved in formulating or implementing stringent access policies for foreigners in Tibetan regions. The Act supports diplomatic and journalistic access to Tibet. Crucially, the US also aims to uphold the economic progress, environmental conservation, and improved living conditions of Tibetan communities within China and abroad. Funding of $17 million and an additional million for the Special Coordinator for Tibetan issues has been proposed for the fiscal year 2021 to support these Tibetan issues.
China’s Reaction
The Chinese government firmly opposes the US’s visa restriction policy, urging the US to cease interference in its domestic affairs concerning Tibet. Furthermore, they recommend the US not cause more damage to Sino-US relations and the bilateral communication and cooperation between the two nations.
The Way Forward
Sino-US relations face a downturn due to various disagreements, but the world needs peaceful and cooperative solutions amidst the ongoing pandemic. Therefore, both nations need to explore conciliatory methods and diplomatic dialogues to foster peace and cooperation.