Beijing Insists on Government Approval for Next Dalai Lama

China’s Foreign Ministry said on 2 July that any future Dalai Lama must be endorsed by the “central government” and located within China, reaffirming Beijing’s long-held claim of authority over Tibetan Buddhist succession. Spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters that the reincarnation of senior lamas, including the Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama, must be selected by drawing lots from a golden urn and receive formal state approval.

Beijing’s declaration follows a video message released the same day by the 14th Dalai Lama, who confirmed that the centuries-old reincarnation system would continue after his death and asserted that only a foundation he created should oversee the search for his successor. The competing statements underscore the long-running dispute between the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader and China, which has controlled Tibet since 1951 and maintains regulations governing the recognition of “living Buddhas.”