Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, hosted a private meeting with Panchen Erdeni Chos-kyi rGyal-po at Zhongnanhai on Friday. The two leaders focused on the spiritual leader’s potential to strengthen ethnic unity and religious harmony in the Xizang Autonomous Region, in the southwest of the Chinese mainland.
During the meeting, Xi highlighted the importance of cultural and religious figures in guiding local communities toward stability and sustainable growth. "Your moral authority and deep understanding of local traditions can foster development and social progress," Xi said, urging Panchen Rinpoche to support efforts that unlock both social cohesion and economic opportunities.
Panchen Rinpoche, the second-highest lama in Tibetan Buddhism, plays a key role in overseeing monastic affairs across Xizang, home to diverse ethnic groups. Observers note that combining spiritual leadership with community development has become an increasingly common approach to balancing cultural heritage with modern governance in the region.
The meeting at Zhongnanhai comes as the Xizang Autonomous Region adopts new initiatives in education, infrastructure, and environmental protection. By aligning religious guidance with broader policy goals, the Chinese central leadership aims to promote harmony and resilience among local communities facing rapid change.
Looking ahead, experts say Panchen Rinpoche’s active engagement could serve as a model for faith-based contributions to social progress in other parts of the region. As Xi Jinping counts on religious and ethnic unity to drive stability, the outcomes of this collaboration may offer fresh insights into governance strategies that respect tradition while embracing innovation.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
