The United States is commemorating the 30th anniversary of the disappearance of the Panchen Lama Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, a young Tibetan Buddhist leader recognized by the Dalai Lama. In May 1995, Chinese authorities abducted the boy and his family just days after he was identified as an important figure in the Tibetan Buddhist community.
Gedhun Choekyi Nyima has been missing since then, with Chinese authorities showing no signs of releasing him or addressing concerns about his whereabouts. The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, is urging Beijing to take immediate action and stop persecuting Tibetans for their religious beliefs.
The disappearance of the Panchen Lama has long been seen as a human rights tragedy, with many observers questioning China's treatment of Tibetan Buddhists. The US has consistently called for Gedhun Choekyi Nyima's release and an end to what it sees as Beijing's campaign of repression in Tibet.
As the world marks this milestone, Rubio is reaffirming the US commitment to promoting human rights and religious freedom globally. "The international community must remain vigilant in its pursuit of truth and justice for Gedhun Choekyi Nyima," he said.