"Dalai Lama's 90th birthday sparks geopolitical concerns"

Leaders from India, the US, and Taiwan Extend Support to Dalai Lama on His 90th Birthday

Political figures from India, the United States, and Taiwan expressed solidarity with Tibet’s exiled spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, on his 90th birthday on Sunday—an event that has drawn attention to long-standing geopolitical tensions.

Tibetans are concerned that China may appoint its own successor to the Dalai Lama, further strengthening its authority over Tibet, a region it has governed since sending troops there in 1950.

The Dalai Lama, who refers to himself as a "simple Buddhist monk," marked the occasion in India, where he has resided since fleeing Lhasa in 1959 after a failed uprising against Chinese rule.

He has stated that only his office in India has the authority to determine his eventual successor.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his greetings in a statement, read aloud at the celebrations in the Himalayan town where the Dalai Lama lives. "On behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, I extend my warmest wishes to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on his 90th birthday," Modi said. "He embodies love, compassion, patience, and moral discipline."

China, however, reiterated this week that it would decide any future succession of the Tibetan spiritual leader.

Modi’s strong endorsement is notable, as India and China—rivals for influence in South Asia—have worked to mend relations following a 2020 border skirmish.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also sent a statement, read at the event, expressing Washington’s commitment to upholding the rights of Tibetans. "We support preserving Tibet’s linguistic, cultural, and religious identity, including the freedom to choose and honor religious leaders without outside interference," the statement said.

Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, whose government Beijing claims as part of its territory, praised the Dalai Lama’s legacy. In a message read at the ceremony, Lai said his example "inspires those who value freedom, democracy, and human rights."

Additionally, video messages from three former US presidents were shared. Bill Clinton remarked, "In a world where divisions threaten our shared humanity, your work for a kinder, more compassionate world is invaluable."

George W. Bush stated, "With global challenges mounting, your message of kindness and love is needed now more than ever."

Barack Obama jokingly referred to the Dalai Lama as the "youngest 90-year-old I know," adding, "It’s remarkable to think you’ve been a global leader longer than I’ve been alive."

In his message, Obama praised the Dalai Lama for demonstrating "what it means to champion compassion, freedom, and dignity—all while calling yourself just a simple Buddhist monk."