'Shooting Oneself In Foot': Chinese Embassy Calls Tibet Issue 'Thorn' In India-China Ties

Amid the row over Dalai Lama's succession, the Chinese Embassy in India has called the Tibet issue a "thorn" in Sino-Indian relations, while adding that playing the Tibet card is similar to "shooting oneself in the foot".

Yu Jing, the embassy spokesperson, said on social media that some people from strategic and academic communities, including former officials, have made "some improper remarks on the reincarnation of Dalai Lama, contrary to Indian government's public stance".

"As professionals in foreign affairs, they should be fully cognizant of the sensitivity of issues related to Xizang, and that the reincarnation and succession of the Dalai Lama is inherently an internal affair of China, brooking no interference of any external forces," the spokesperson added.

Jing noted that Indian government has made "political commitments" to China, and "recognises" that Xizang Autonomous Region—China's reference to Tibet—is part of the "territory of the People's Republic of China"

The spokesperson further said that India "does not allow" Tibetans to engage in political activities against China in India.

"In reality, Xizang-related issue is a thorn in China-India relations and has become a burden for India. Playing the “Xizang card” will definitely end up shooting oneself in the foot," she added.

Notably, a debate has emerged in recent period over the successor Dalai Lama, who turned 90 years old earlier this month. The followers of the spiritual leader believe that the senior-most Buddhist monk will be reincarnated after his death. However, China has maintained that the selection of Dalai Lama's successor has to be approved by its "central government".

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