Phoenix TV:

Recently, the 14th Dalai Lama once again made claims regarding his reincarnation. What is your comment?

Wang Junzheng:

Thank you for your question. I would like to invite Mr. Gama Cedain to answer this question.

Gama Cedain:

The reincarnation of living Buddhas has strict religious rituals and historical conventions. The historical legitimacy of the title of Dalai Lama originates from the central government. On the issue of the Dalai Lama's reincarnation, the central government indisputably has the final authority. This is a creed adhered to by the vast number of religious believers and an important part of the religious rituals and historical conventions for the Dalai Lama's reincarnation. The reincarnation has never been decided by the reincarnated individual alone. The reincarnation of the Dalai Lama must adhere to the principle of searching within the Chinese territory, drawing lots from the golden urn, and receiving approval from the central government, follow religious rituals and historical conventions, and be handled in accordance with national laws and regulations. Thank you.