Tibet: understanding before governance
- By Han Fangming
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E-mail China.org.cn, January 11, 2016
Having limited knowledge of the region and only applying fixed patterns to deal with Tibetan issues would only increase tensions and stoke discontent. For example, some of the issues were caused by a lack of communication which escalated misunderstanding into a dead-end. It is, therefore, essential for those who govern the region to contact local people and learn about Tibetan culture and customs in order to increase the bond.
Cross-cultural communication between the Han and Tibetan people is a long and enduring process. In recent years, more and more Tibetan people have learned to speak mandarin very well but the number of Han people learning the Tibetan language is quite limited. In the 1990s, Wang began to genuinely promote the exchange of the two cultures through translating a lot of Han literary masterpieces into Tibetan and aligning Tibet's unique culture with Han Confucianism, facilitating mutual understanding and contributing to the greater Chinese culture and values. More importantly, only by drawing the two closer together can we guarantee the lasting harmony and stability of the region.
Apart from promoting cultural exchange and people-to-people communication, Wang is also known for his dedication to nurturing young Tibetologists who have now grown into a positive force advancing exchange and communication between the two cultures.
Regional understanding must come before successful governance. It is vital to carry out Wang's patriotic and inclusive spirit and expand the influence of Tibetology for better relations between the two cultures.
Han Fangming is a founding chairman and chief sponsor of the Charhar Institute, a non-governmental think tank.
The article was translated by Guo Yiming. Its original version was published in Chinese.
Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.
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