President Xi Jinping urged unity on a surprise visit to Tibet, appearing before 20,000 people to mark 60 years since China created the autonomous region after annexing it.

The trip underscores Beijing’s focus on tightening party control over ethnic minorities, especially in the restive region.

Following the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday, and in advance of the 60th anniversary of the Tibet Autonomous Region, Beijing puts on a show of force.