Gyaltsen Norbu, often referred to as the "fake Panchen Lama," is set to visit Nepal from December 14 to 17. His visit coincides with the 9th South China Sea Buddhism Roundtable Conference, scheduled to take place in Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, from December 12 to 17.

Norbu, widely seen as a puppet of the Chinese government, is a key figure in Beijing's efforts to control Tibetan Buddhism and undermine the authority of the Dalai Lama. His visit to Nepal aligns with China's broader strategy to influence Buddhist nations globally and whitewash its human rights record in Tibet.

The South China Sea Buddhism Roundtable, a Chinese-led initiative, aims to foster cooperation among Buddhist communities while advancing China's regional and diplomatic interests. This year's conference in Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is viewed as another attempt by Beijing to assert its leadership within the global Buddhist community.

Nepal's hosting of this high-profile event and Norbu's visit has drawn significant international scrutiny. The country's role in promoting China's soft power strategy raises concerns about the potential implications for its diplomatic and cultural autonomy.

In 2022, when Norbu's visit to Nepal was initially planned, the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) President, Penpa Tsering, emphasized that Tibetans, both inside and outside Tibet, do not recognize Norbu as the legitimate Panchen Lama.

The appointment of Gyaltsen Norbu as the 11th Panchen Lama by the Chinese government in 1995 remains highly controversial. The subsequent disappearance of the real 11th Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, who was six years old at the time of his abduction by Chinese authorities, further fuels suspicion and condemnation.

Despite repeated claims by Chinese officials regarding Gedhun Choekyi Nyima's well-being, no concrete evidence has been provided to substantiate these assertions. The lack of transparency and the enduring mystery surrounding his whereabouts continue to cast a shadow over China's actions in Tibet.

Fake Panchen Lama