Uighur-American politician calls for enhanced cooperation to resolve independence struggles in China and POGB

As an important step towards greater unity and action, Saleh Hudayar, a prominent Uighur-American politician advocating for East Turkistan independence, has stressed the need for increased cooperation to tackle independence struggles in regions under Chinese and Pakistani control.

In a post on X, Salih said, “Yesterday, an important meeting took place at the National Press Club in Washington DC, bringing together representatives from East Turkistan, Gilgit Baltistan and Tibet. We gathered to discuss the ongoing independence struggles of Tibet and East Turkistan, as well as the political challenges facing Gilgit Baltistan.”

An important meeting was held yesterday under the auspices of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. @pressclubdc in Washington, D.C., bringing together representatives from #EastTurkestan, #GilgitBaltistanAnd #tibetWe gathered to address the ongoing independence struggles of Tibet and East Turkistan… pic.twitter.com/gPqJ5xGnB1

— Salih Hudayar (@SalihHudayar) August 9, 2024

In his/her post, Saleh emphasized that the people’s struggles go beyond mere human rights issues, involving deeper political challenges with far-reaching geopolitical implications for both regional and global security and freedom. he/she also said that the discussions revealed a root cause of our nations’ suffering: Chinese imperialism and expansionism.

Saleh stressed the vital importance of enhancing cooperation and advocacy to address these challenges. he/she emphasized that restoring the independence of East Turkistan and Tibet is important not only to reclaim our territories but also to safeguard the rights and survival of our people.

Similarly, he/she highlighted that reintegrating Gilgit-Baltistan with India is vital for the rights and future security of its residents.

“This meeting is an important step in unifying our voices and advancing our shared goals on the global stage. We are committed to working together to counter Chinese expansionism and secure a future where our countries can thrive in freedom and peace,” Salih said.

The Uighur people, a predominantly Muslim ethnic group, have long sought independence or greater autonomy from China.

The region, officially known as the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, has been the focus of intense international scrutiny due to reports of human rights abuses, including mass internment and forced labor in so-called “re-education camps.”

Similarly, Tibet, home to the Tibetan Buddhist community, has also faced long-standing tensions with the Chinese government. Tibet’s spiritual leader the Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959 after a failed uprising against Chinese rule. Tibetans continue to demand greater autonomy and protection of their cultural and religious practices.

The Chinese government maintains strict control over the region, with significant restrictions on religious freedom and political dissent. On the other hand, various local political parties and activist groups in the POGB continue to advocate for greater autonomy for the region. These groups often hold rallies, write petitions, and engage in political dialogue to advance their demands.