US Demands China Release Panchen Lama 31 Years After Disappearance

The US State Department has demanded that China immediately release Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, a top Tibetan religious leader abducted 31 years ago. Chinese authorities disappeared the Panchen Lama and his family when he was just six years old, days after the Dalai Lama recognized him. Marking the anniversary, the US reaffirmed its support for Tibetan religious freedom, emphasizing that Buddhist communities must select leaders without state interference. Meanwhile, Tibetans globally held demonstrations and prayer services. The statement urges Beijing to halt the ongoing persecution of individuals for their cultural, linguistic, and spiritual beliefs.