Within 2 hours of the actual earthquake, premier Wen Jiabao was on a plane to Chengdu. Upon landing, he was on the scene at the devastated city of Dujiangyan within hours. He has barely slept over the last 24-30 hours, personally attending to details on the scene. He has been in almost constant tears, doing what little he can to help. He has been quoted as saying to … [Read more...] about Sichuan earthquake – continued
Separatists kill 8 railway workers
This story just off the wire talks about more violence on the foothills of the Himalayas, resulting from a recent government crack-down on a long simmering separatist movement. … [Read more...] about Separatists kill 8 railway workers
Major earthquake centered in Tibetan autonomous area
A devastating earthquake has struck western Sichuan province. Early press reports are available here, and here; video from CCTV is here (Internet Explorer required). The earthquake's epicenter is in Wenchuang county, which is part of the larger Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture. The earthquake occurred at a very shallow depth, which accounts for the heavy damage, … [Read more...] about Major earthquake centered in Tibetan autonomous area
Tibet: Answers to a reader's questions
A reader of our blog asked this question on a previous thread: To Buxi and CLC: Thanks for your replies. WRT Tibetan independence, some Tibetans seek it, presumably as they see it to be to their benefit. PRC opposes it, as they see it as a detriment. I would like to explore the second part. I’ve read the historical justifications for Tibet being within China, such as the … [Read more...] about Tibet: Answers to a reader's questions
Western coverage begins to find balance
In recent weeks, Western press coverage has substantially changed in tone from earlier, one-sided demonized versions. One article today which, while still criticizing Beijing on human rights + Tibet issues, concludes there is another side of the Olympics story yet to be heard. Telegraph: New China basks in golden glow of Olympics … [Read more...] about Western coverage begins to find balance