The Trump administration would push for the inclusion of Tibet’s exiled government in more international organizations under a new bipartisan proposal that rebukes China for its pressure campaign against the Tibetan people.
The bill from Sens. Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., and James Risch, R-Idaho, shared first with Semafor, would direct the Trump administration to advocate for the Central Tibetan Administration, Tibet’s government in exile, to have observer status at the United Nations and to be included in other international bodies.
The legislation calls for a resolution of the dispute between Tibet and China, labeling it a “matter of strategic interest to the United States.”
It also instructs the US government to encourage allies to “engage with and support the Central Tibetan Administration at senior levels.”
“Human rights and basic dignity for the people of Tibet cannot be ignored,” Merkley said. “Our bipartisan bill sends a clear message that the United States will stand with Tibet in its fight for these fundamental freedoms and the promise of tomorrow.”
Risch said the proposal “supports the Tibetan people, key partners in pushing back against China’s authoritarianism, and counters China’s malign influence at the United Nations.”
The Senate bill is also cosponsored by Sens. Tim Kaine, D-Va., Todd Young, R-Ind., Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., and Rick Scott, R-Fla. Similar legislation was introduced by Reps. Jim McGovern, D-Mass., and Michael McCaul, R-Texas, in the House.
The legislation’s fate is unclear, but its introduction could nevertheless stoke tensions with the Chinese government ahead of an expected visit by leader Xi Jinping to Washington next month.