Archive · 28 Nov 2025
Xi Jinping Honors Hu Yaobang's Vision on Tibet
Hu Yaobang was a leader in China who believed Tibetans should have more control over their own lives.
He visited Tibet in 1980 and said Tibetans should be the masters of their own region.
Recently, China's current leader, Xi Jinping, praised Hu Yaobang and his ideas.
However, after some protests in 1989, China's policies towards Tibet became stricter.
Now, China is focusing on making its regions, including Tibet, more like the rest of China.
Xi's praise for Hu shows that some of Hu's ideas are still remembered, but it's not clear if China will change its current policies.
Xi Jinping praised Hu Yaobang's contributions to China, including his vision for Tibet's autonomy, during a speech on November 20, 2025.
Hu Yaobang visited Tibet in 1980 and advocated for full nationality autonomy, encouraging Tibetans to be masters of their own lives.
Hu's visit was marked by a commitment to improve Tibetans' lives and reduce their burdens, indicating a willingness to consult with local people.
Post-Tiananmen Square, Beijing's policies towards Tibet hardened, with leaders like Hu Jintao implementing stricter measures.
Despite Xi's praise, China's current policy focuses on the total sinicisation of restive provinces, suggesting Hu's vision may not lead to significant policy changes.
- Who
- Hu Yaobang, former General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party, and Xi Jinping, current President of China
- What
- Xi Jinping's speech honoring Hu Yaobang's vision for Tibet and his contributions to China
- When
- November 20, 2025 (Xi's speech), May 22-31, 1980 (Hu's Tibet visit)
- Where
- Beijing, China (Xi's speech), Lhasa, Tibet (Hu's visit)
- Why
- To commemorate Hu Yaobang's 110th anniversary and acknowledge his historical contributions, including his vision for Tibet's autonomy
- Hu Yaobang
- Former General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (1982-1987)
- Tibet Visit
- May 22-31, 1980
- Key Slogan
- Strive to build a united, prosperous and civilised new Tibet
- Xi Jinping's Speech
- November 20, 2025, Symposium Commemorating Hu Yaobang's 110th Anniversary
- Hu's Vision
- Full nationality autonomy for Tibetans, allowing them to be masters of their own lives
- Policy Change
- Post-Tiananmen Square hardening of Beijing's policies towards Tibet
- Current Policy
- Total sinicisation of restive provinces, including Tibet and Xinjiang