US House Approves Bill to Support Tibet in Talks with China

Historic Legislation for Peaceful Resolution

The US House of Representatives has passed a significant bill, the Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet–China Dispute Act, aimed at encouraging China to engage in dialogue with Tibetan leaders to resolve their long-standing differences.

This important step, known as the Resolve Tibet Act, seeks to reopen negotiations that have been halted since 2010. The International Campaign for Tibet reported this development on February 15, 2024.

Bipartisan Support for Tibet

Introduced by Representatives Jim McGovern, D-Mass., and Michael McCaul, R-Texas, the bill challenges China’s claims over Tibet and strengthens the US State Department’s efforts to counter misinformation about Tibetan history and culture.

The Senate is now expected to consider its version of the bill, showing strong bipartisan backing for Tibet‘s cause.

Voices from Congress and Tibetan Leaders

Congress members and Tibetan representatives have expressed their support for the bill. Rep. McGovern highlighted that the bill recognizes the rights of the Tibetan people and insists on a peaceful resolution through dialogue.

Rep. Young Kim emphasized the importance of Tibetans having a say in their future, highlighting their democratic values and desire for religious freedom.

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Namgyal Choedup, representing the Dalai Lama and the Central Tibetan Administration in North America, thanked US Congress for its support, stating that the bill boosts the determination and resilience of the Tibetan people.

Tencho Gyatso, President of the International Campaign for Tibet, noted the growing US support for Tibet and urged China to restart dialogue with Tibetan leaders.

What the Bill Entails

The Resolve Tibet Act outlines a US policy that the Tibet-China dispute should be resolved peacefully, in line with international law, through dialogue without preconditions. It encourages the US to promote dialogue between China and Tibetan leaders, coordinate international efforts for a negotiated agreement, and counter Chinese disinformation about Tibet.

The legislation clarifies that Tibet includes not only the Tibet Autonomous Region but also Tibetan areas in Gansu, Qinghai, Sichuan, and Yunnan provinces. It supports the Dalai Lama‘s “Middle Way Approach” for peaceful dialogue, marking a significant move by the US to facilitate a resolution to the Tibet–China dispute.

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