India's Stance on Dalai Lama's Successor Clarified by Foreign Ministry

Clarification from the Foreign Ministry

In response to comments made by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju regarding the successor to the Dalai Lama, the Ministry of External Affairs stated on Friday that the Indian government does not take a position or comment on religious matters and traditions. The government has consistently upheld religious freedom for all in India and will continue to do so. Rijiju had mentioned that it is up to individuals to determine the successor of the Dalai Lama.

Jaiswal reiterated that the Indian government maintains a neutral stance on issues related to faith and religious practices. He emphasized the constitutional commitment of India to uphold the freedom of religion for everyone.

Diplomatic Engagement Amid Global Uncertainties

Amidst global uncertainties, both nations appear eager to maintain a stable working relationship. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to visit China on July 13 for the SCO Foreign Ministers' meeting, marking the first bilateral visit by any foreign minister since Wang Yi's trip to India in early 2022. Jaishankar has not visited China since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the military standoff in 2020.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh also visited China last month for the SCO Defense Ministers' meeting. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has made two trips to China since his meeting with President Xi Jinping during the BRICS summit in Russia last October. Wang, serving as a special representative for border talks, is set to visit India this month for discussions with Doval.