Xinhua is the official news agency of the People's Republic of China

BEIJING, 24th November: A high-ranking Chinese official met with the 11th Panchen Lama here Friday, saying he hoped the Panchen would make great progress in both his religious and secular studies, and contribute to ethnic solidarity, the prosperity of the country and the improvement of people's lives.

Zhao Puchu, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and also the president of the Buddhist Association of China, welcomed Panchen Erdeni, whose religious name is Jizu Losang Qamba Lhunzhub Qoigyijabu Baisangbu, at Guangji Temple, where the association is located.

Zhao expressed his wishes to the Panchen on behalf of the association and the Buddhists throughout the country.

The 11th Panchen said that he would carry forward the good traditions of his predecessor, and become a Living Buddha who pledges his love to his country and Buddhism. Zhao, who was a chief adviser to the reincarnation of the Panchen Lama, presented some gifts to the 11th Panchen, who in turn gave him a Hada, a long piece of silk, and other gifts.

The soul boy for 10th Panchen was confirmed by drawing lots from a golden urn on 29th November 1995. The State Council approved the reincarnation.