TIBETAN BulletiN The Official Journal of the Central Tibetan Administration

Volume 23 - Issue 3 MAY - JUNE 2019

Focus

Riga Declaration and Dharamshala Declaration in Support of Tibet

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Feature

His Holiness the Dalai Lama ushers religious harmony at ‘Celebrating Diversity in the Muslim World’ Conference

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World Press

The 17-point Agreement – What China promised, what it really delivered and the future?

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www.tibet.net/en/tibbul www.tibet.net/en/tibbul

Focus 12 His Holiness the Dalai Lama thanks Tibet supporters at the 7th World Parliamentarian Convention on Tibet 13 The Riga Declaration: 7th World Parliamentary Convention on Tibet TIBETAN 14 6th All India Tibet Support Groups Conference Makes a BulletiN Resounding Start in Dharamshala, 21 Indian States Participate Tibetan Bulletin is an official bi-monthly 15 Declaration of the Sixth All India Tibet Support Groups journal of the Central Tibetan Administration. Conference 17 11th Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace Concludes with Strongest Representation of Tibetan Buddhist Tradition

Feature 18 His Holiness the Dalai Lama ushers religious harmony amongst Muslim communities at ‘Celebrating Diversity in the Muslim World’ Conference Signed articles or quotations do not necessarily reflect the views of the Central 19 After Rare Visit to Tibet, US Envoy Urges China to Resume Tibetan Administration. Dialogue with His Holiness the Dalai Lama Contributions are welcome and may be 20 “There is certainly no doubt that I would live for over hundred addressed to the editor, Tibetan Bulletin. years” : His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Tenshug, Dharamshala However the publisher regrets its inability to return unused articles unless they are 21 His Holiness the Dalai Lama Congratulates Prime Minister accompanied by a self-addressed envelope Modi with adequate postage.

21 CTA President Congratulates PM Modi and India on ‘Conducting Tibetan Bulletin is distributed free of World’s Biggest Democratic Event’ charge. To subscribe please email the circulation manager or see back cover. 22 His Holiness the Dalai Lama Graces the First Non-Sectarian Buddhist Conference on Kalachakra Tantra Editor Tenzin Saldon 23 His Holiness the Dalai Lama Bestows Avalokiteshvara Email: [email protected] Empowerment on Holy Sagadawa Asst. Editor World Press Tenzin Phende 24 Google defeats shareholders on ‘Dragonfly’ censored search in Layout & Design China Dorjee Tsering 25 China, Pakistan, Saudi Worst for Human Rights; Mostly Mus- Circulation Manager lims at the Receiving End – US Reports Norbu Wangdue 26 To restore calm in Hong Kong, try democracy Email: [email protected] Tibetan Bulletin is published by: 26 Human Rights Organisation Calls on Congress to Investigate Department of Information and Genocide in China International Relations, 27 China’s Tiananmen reckoning Central Tibetan Administration, 29 The 17-point Agreement – What China promised, what it really Dharamshala - 176 215 H.P. India Tel: +91-1892-222510 / 222457 delivered and the future? Vol. 23, Issue 3 Regulars MAY - JUNE 2019 News From Tibet & Exile ...... 4 Contact ...... 31 Quotes ...... 32 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE

China Sentences Nine Tibet- factories. However, TCHRD noted that cally challenged person. The fourth un- ans Demanding Land Rights in their arrests were reported by Chinese identified person was later released but state media only in November 2018. Wangchen, Lobsang and Yonten are still Rebgong The authorities reportedly compensated being held at the county police station. the factories annually for the According to news reports, the local po- loss of business but the pay- lice confiscated their cell phones. Police ments to the village stopped, also prevented the family members of which then led to the villag- Wangchen, Lobsang and Yonten from ers’ call for the return of their visiting them, while informing that the land, stated TCHRD. three will be sentenced in about 15 days. TCHRD has also released Just four days before their detention, images of a petition dated Tibetans worldwide marked the 30th 21 February 2017, with 24 birthday of the 11th Panchen Lama on signatories complaining the 25 April. On 17 May 1995, the Chinese overdue compensation for government abducted Panchen Gedhun seven years which was en- Choekyi Nyima—six years old at the dorsed and supported by the time—after His Holiness the Dalai Lama Village Committee. publicly announced him as the 11th Pan- A Chinese court has sentenced nine Ti- chen Lama. He has not been seen since. betans for creating an informal organiza- Tibetans Detained in Karze for tion urging authorities to return commu- Praying and Calling for Pan- In attempt to muzzle peaceful nity land taken by authorities in Rebgong County, Malho (Chinese: Huangnan) Ti- chen Lama’s Release call for Panchen Lama’s release, betan Autonomous Prefecture, in the tra- China hands heavy sentence to ditional province of Amdo. They were Sershul Tibetan and kin sentenced around mid-April for three to seven years. The nine Tibetans, identified by the Ti- In yet another example of China’s betan Centre for Human Rights and De- heavy-handed employment of law en- mocracy, are Gendun Soepa, Choesang, forcement to crackdown on peaceful Bhende Dorje, Tashi Tsering, Sonam acts of protest and targeted attempts to Gyal, Dhargye, Shawo Tsering Khajan muzzle free expression, a Tibetan youth Gyal, and Dukbum Tsering. They were convicted for starting an informal or- ganization which the Rebgong County Court held “illegal” and for engaging in “forced business transaction”, “extor- tion and deceit” and for “disturb[ing] Chinese authorities have detained four social order by mobilising support from Tibetans for praying for the release of the public”. the Panchen Lama in Serchul County, The court accused the nine Tibetans of Karze (Chinese: Ganzi) Prefecture in the having “maliciously obstructed the gov- traditional Kham province of Tibet. On 29 April, one of the detainee, a ernment’s land acquisition work and nor- and his aunt from Sershul in Tibet’s Kar- 20-year-old Tibetan named Wangchen mal construction operations, committed ze were handed prison terms of four and prayed and called for the release of the serious crimes that constitute a crime of half years and one year and three months 11th Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi gathering people to disturb social order,” respectively for observing a peaceful act Nyima and for his reunification with His reported the Centre on its website. of prayer and for sharing information Holiness the Dalai Lama in Tibet. They The nine Tibetans, all residents of Horg- connected to the act. were on a week-long clean-up drive on yal village in Rebgong, Malho were de- According to latest reports surfacing a mountain close to a Sershul monas- tained in July 2018 and formally arrested from Tibet, the Sershul County Peo- tery when Wangchen reportedly recited about a month later in August for running ple’s Court in Sichuan’s Karze yester- prayers and shouted slogans during an a campaign “to reclaim community land day sentenced a young Tibetan named offering of prayer flags on the mountain. expropriated by local government for a Wangchen to four and half years in pris- On their way back at around 10:30 AM failed business enterprise” – where three on on charges of “leading a conspicuous local time, the local police arrested and brick factories were run in exchange for protest in public against the law of the detained Wangchen and his friends Lob- lease payments to the village that ended land”. sang, Yonten, and a fourth man, a physi- in 2011 after the government closed the Wangchen’s aunt Acha Dolkar was sen- tenced to one year and three months im-

MAY - JUNE 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 3 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE prisonment on charges of “leaking state their website, Human Rights Watch list- ing their freedom of expression, and de- secrets” and “endangering the welfare of ed more than 80 Tibetans who have been manding the Chinese authorities of their the state”. incriminated and sentenced to long-term rights and freedom in Tibet. Link to the According to experts on China and hu- imprisonment by the Chinese authori- pictures of 80 political prisoners serving man rights, charges of “leaking state ties. “Tibetans who did nothing more long sentences. secrets” are commonly used by Chinese than call peacefully for their human legal institutions to violate people’s rights to be respected have been unjustly China Orders Primary and Mid- right to privacy, freedom of expression sentenced to long prison terms,” Sophie dle Schools in Amdo Golog to and information and specifically to de- Richardson, China director at Human Stop Teaching in Tibetan tain Tibetan and Uighur dissidents. Rights Watch said in the report. Ten days ago, Wangchen shouted slo- Of the cases detailed by Human Rights gans of prayers calling for the release Watch, the majority are Tibetans who of the 11th Panchen Lama, the highest have been arrested and sentenced in spiritual leader after the Dalai Lama and connection with the 2008 pan-Tibet the reunion of His Holiness the Dalai peaceful protests, while 10 others were Lama and the Panchen Lama during a sentenced in connection to Tibetan self- ceremony of hanging of prayer flags on immolation protests. It is evident that a hill near the Sershul Monastery. these Tibetan political prisoners were Wangchen, along with three others were imprisoned under dubious or trumped- detained by the local Chinese police on up charges by Chinese courts such as their return to the base of the hill. “endangering state security”, “separat- During the hearing at Sershul court on ism” and “leaking state secrets”. The 7 May, Wangchen was seen walking list of cases includes human rights de- unsteadily, leading some observers to fenders, prominent environmentalist, believe he had been tortured in custody. religious figures, monks, and profes- No one was allowed to get close to him sionals amongst others, with an aver- to look for signs of trauma, RFA reports. age sentence term of roughly 13 years, “We don’t know where Wangchen and excluding life sentences (15) and death his aunt were taken after they were sen- sentences (7). tenced, and his family were not allowed After the initial reporting of the Tibetans’ to provide lawyers to represent him in arbitrary arrests and sentencing, in most Chinese authorities in Golog (Chi- court,” sources confided to RFA. cases, no further information has been nese: Guoluo), in the traditional Amdo The source reportedly confirmed that available, especially about their well- province, have ordered all primary and Sershul county is currently under tight being, current location, or health condi- middle schools in the Golog Tibetan lockdown and heightened surveillance. tion. Moreover, families have been de- Autonomous Prefecture to stop teaching The three others namely Lobsang, nied information about the whereabouts in Tibetan language. Only the Tibetan Yonten and a third who only witnessed of their imprisoned family members or language class can be taught in Tibetan Wangchen’s peaceful act without taking to contact them. Human Rights Watch whereas the medium for teaching other part were detained as Wangchen’s ac- states, “There are serious concerns for classes will be in the Chinese language, complice and as of latest reports, Lob- the health of many of these prisoners, the Golog Prefecture Education Depart- sang and Yonten were each fined 15,000 due to severe physical abuse and denial ment instructed the schools in a new di- yuan (US $2,211) and ordered to attend of medical care in custody. Several are rective issued recently. political re-education classes on “issues reported to have undergone emergency This directive is set to be implemented of national security” for six months. medical treatment while serving their in autumn this year which means that sentences.” The concern is well-found- when the schools reopen after the sum- Human Rights Watch Calls on ed. In less than a month’s time, between mer break, Tibetan children from 1st to China to Immediately Release mid-April and beginning of this month, 9th grade in Golog will have only the three former political prisoners and Over 80 Tibetans Unjustly Im- Tibetan language class to learn and use torture-survivors in Tibet passed away. their native language in schools. prisoned for Long-Term The three Tibetans, Yeshi Gyatso, Pema An image of the new directive (in Chi- Wangchen and Lekshey Thupten, were nese) released by the UK-based orga- A leading international rights organiza- all subjected to torture when imprisoned nization Free Tibet clearly instructs the tion, Human Rights Watch, has urged which led to the deterioration of health schools to treat the order with great im- the Chinese government to “immedi- even after their release, leading to their portance and claims that the move aims ately release Tibetan monks and other deaths eventually. to “provide more academic opportuni- peaceful critics arbitrarily imprisoned Hundreds of Tibetans continue to be ties for the students”. According to re- since the March 2008 protests across the arbitrarily detained, unjustly jailed and liable sources, Tibetan intellectuals and Tibetan plateau”. In a report released on mistreated in prisons for merely exercis-

4 TIBETAN BULLETIN MAY - JUNE 2019 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE students in Tibet have expressed their Yeshi Gyatso was son of Kotoh (father) the region. The year 2012 saw the high- objection to this order with some even and Tsunmo Kyi (mother) and is sur- est number of Tibetans resorting to self- taking to social media to voice their con- vived by his mother. He was from Tsen- immolation protest, 85 in total of known cerns. mo Yarteng village, Rebgong County, self-immolations in Tibet. Till date, at The official notice further states that Malho (Chinese: Huangnan) Tibetan least 153 Tibetans from all walks of life workshops will be conducted for teach- Autonomous Prefecture in the tradition- have self-immolated in Tibet protesting ing materials for the subjects in Chinese al Amdo province of Tibet. against China’s repressive policies, and and to increase the proficiency of teach- Yeshi Gyatso’s passing away is the third while calling for the return of His Ho- ers to teach the subjects in Chinese. death of a former political prisoner dy- liness the Dalai Lama and freedom in Schools have also been directed to assist ing due to health conditions sustained in Tibet. in promoting this teaching model and al- the Chinese prisons and detention cen- locate teachers proficient in Chinese lan- ters in the recent times. Recently former China Sentences 21 Tibetans in guage to teach first grades, said the order political prisoners Pema Wangchen and Tibet to Prison on Pretext of signed by Ang Bao, the head of the Go- Lekshey Thupten passed away due to “Black and Evil Crimes” log Prefecture Education Department. health complications sustained during

Last winter Chinese authorities banned the torture inflicted upon them in Chi- the monasteries in Kham Nangchen, nese prisons. Yushul (Ch: Yushu) Tibetan Autono- mous Prefecture from holding informal Photos of 2012 Tibetan Self- Tibetan language classes to Tibetan stu- immolators Identified dents during their school break. The ar- bitrary arrest and unfair trial of Tibetan language advocate Tashi Wangchuk fur- ther evince the blatant disregard of Ti- betan language by the Chinese authori- ties. One More Torture Survivor, China has been exercising systemic hurdles and discriminations against Ti- Former Political Prisoner Yeshi betans in Tibet. When Tibetans ques- Gyatso Passes Away Three Tibetans who had self-immolated tion this, they are promptly framed un- in 2012 protesting against Chinese rule der different categories of offences and and policies in Tibet have now been sentenced without any access to free identified with their photographs. and fair trial and without any access to Although details of the three self-im- independent judiciary. The recent news molators were received and recorded in report emanating from Tibet about ar- the same year, their photographs became rests and sentencing of Tibetans is one available only years later. All three died such example. 21 Tibetans have been on site after their immolation protests. sentenced to prison under the pretext The photographs are of: of committing criminal activities in 1) Dorjee, 18-years-old from Cha Ruwa, Shordha town in the Tibetan province of Ngaba Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture Kham which is now annexed under the who died immediately after his self-im- Kyegudo (Yushu) Tibetan Autonomous molation protest on March 5, 2012; Prefecture of China’s Qinghai Province 2) Lobsang Sherab, 20-years-old from according to the latest report from Ti- Cha town in Ngaba county, Ngaba Ti- betan Centre for Human Rights and De- betan Autonomous Prefecture, self-im- mocracy Centre. Yeshi Gyatso, a 50-year old former po- molated on March 28, 2012 and died on The Nangchen County People’s Court litical prisoner in Tibet and a torture-sur- the spot; and has sentenced 21 Tibetans in two dif- vivor passed away on 1 May 2019. 3) Dhamchoe (Lobsang Damchoe), 17, ferent groups. One group consists of Yeshi Gyatso was arrested on 31 March formerly from Ngaba Kirti Monastery, 11 Tibetans and another group consists 2008 for taking part in the 2008 peace- Ngaba Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, of 10 Tibetans, from Do Thrang village ful protests. He was detained for several self-immolated and died on site on Au- in Shorda town. The 21 Tibetans were months during which he was tortured gust 27, 2012. sentenced to varying prison terms from and beaten severely. The inhuman treat- Although the photographs were re- two to six years in prison and fine from ment suffered by Yeshi Gyatso while in ceived over a year ago, it could not be 10,000 to 50,000 yuan. police custody left him with deep mental confirmed or verified immediately due The local authorities identified one Ti- scars with severe psychological impact. to constant and massive clampdown in betan by name Wang Ché (Ché is added

MAY - JUNE 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 5 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE by the Chinese authorities as a gen- Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture have ond phase of cultural revolution where eral alias to the first syllable of Tibetan resumed expulsion of Tibetan nuns and China now attacks the minds of people names to avoid disclosure) as the leader monks at Yachen Gar which is said to after destroying the places of worship,” of the first group and Zom Ché was iden- have housed about 10,000 nuns, monks, remarked Sonam Norbu Dagpo, spokes- tified as the leader of the second group. and lay practitioners until recent years. person of Central Tibetan Administra- Wang Ché is a former head of the villag- In 2016, Chinese authorities undertook a tion and Secretary of Department of ers’ committee of Do Thrang and Zom mass eviction and demolition of Larung Information and International Relations. Ché is a former nomadic camp leader in Gar, world’s biggest Tibetan Buddhist The international community raised Do Thrang village. Both of them were Institute, and Yachen Gar that led to concerns over the wide-scale removal accused of “mobilizing the support of a destruction of several thousand monas- of houses and residents at Sertha Larung group of villagers to establish an ‘envi- tic dwellings and expulsion of monks Gar and Yachen Gar in 2016 and 2017: ronmental protection committee’, which and nuns of about similar number. The the European Parliament passed an they later used to create a ’10-member demolitions of the two major Buddhist urgency resolution on Tibet and con- committee’ and a ‘nine-member team’ to institutes were thought to have been demned the Larung Gar demolition interfere with government activities and completed within a year. However, re- while a group of UN experts sent a joint seize grassroots power to create hurdles cent reports indicate that the expulsion communication to the Chinese govern- in the implementation of government at Yachen Gar is anything but over. ment questioning the demolition of policy.” The mass expulsion of Tibetan Bud- Larung Gar and Yachen Gar. The sentenced Tibetans were charged dhist practitioners at Yachen Gar this Despite international outcry against the with “creating hurdles for the govern- year began in May, reported Radio forceful removal of practitioners and ment policy, not accepting environ- Free Asia (RFA). According to reliable demolition of Larung Gar, China contin- mental conservation compensation, and sources, close to 3,500 nuns and monks ues to remove thousands of nuns, monks stopping others from receiving it, and have been forced out of Yachen Gar, and lay practitioners at Yachen Gar with negatively influencing the regular work- and unfortunately, the number is likely impunity. “At the international sphere ing of the village and party committees.” to increase as the expulsion drive is still including the United Nations, China China has been misusing and abusing its ongoing. claims that it guarantees right to free- laws to the detriment of Tibetans who In the images obtained via social media, dom of religion and belief to Tibetans. peacefully demand for the rights en- the nuns are seen in line receiving tra- But in reality China has been consistent- shrined in the Chinese Constitution. The ditional farewell whereas in other im- ly attacking Tibetans’ right to profess persecution of Tibetans and the human ages, a number of buses are seen waiting and practice their religion- be it banning rights defenders have caused widespread to transport the expelled practitioners. Tibetan children from participating in panic. Recently China had sentenced Those staying behind were deterred religious activities during vacation or nine Tibetans for airing their legitimate from accompanying their evicted friends restricting Tibetans from going on pil- grievances regarding land grabbing by as they were brought to the buses. grimage and now the forceful removal local authorities and asking for return of No concrete dwellings are known to of monks, nuns and lay practitioners the community lands to the community have been destroyed at this time but au- from Yachen Gar. This is religious per- in Rebgong. Even in this case, the Tibet- thorities are keeping a tight watch over secution, nothing less and we appeal to ans were accused of obstructing govern- the center with “around 600 Chinese the international community to pressur- ment work. officials now permanently stationed at ize China into ensuring freedom of re- Yachen Gar,” according to RFA. ligion and beliefs of Tibetans in its true China Resumes Expulsion The state-led demolition and forced sense,” remarked Thinlay Chukki from Drive at Yachen Gar Tibetan eviction at Yachen Gar and Larung UN, EU and Human Rights Desk, DIIR. Buddhist Institute, Thousands Gar are targeted towards reducing their growth, influence, and power. Monks Evicted Chinese Embassy Condemns and nuns of the centers were forced to Sikyong’s visit to Lithuania undergo “re-education” sessions as re- ported last year, violating their religious and cultural rights. “In the garb of safety concerns, Chinese authorities destroyed much of Larung Gar Buddhist Academy and removed thousands of monks, nuns and layper- sons learning and practicing Buddhist

principles. The real motive was never CTA President Dr. Lobsang Sangay’s Yachen Gar, a major Tibetan Buddhist safety but destruction of faith. This is visit to Lithuania once again triggered center in Tibet’s Karze region is facing evident from the continuing attack on criticism from the Chinese Embassy in eviction once again. Chinese authorities Buddhism and the removal of practitio- Lithuania. in Palyul County in the so-called Karze ners from Yachen Gar. This is the sec-

6 TIBETAN BULLETIN MAY - JUNE 2019 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE

Issuing a press release, embassy of Chi- of Tibet’s monasteries (such as Larung na in Lithuania strongly opposed and Gar) and religious objects, Buddhism openly condemned the press conference has risen in Tibet, although practitioners organized by Andrius Navickas in the must be very careful and discreet in their Seimas this morning where CTA Presi- observances. Repression of Tibetans is dent Dr. Sangay was invited to address ongoing under “socialism with Chinese along with Prof Vytautas Landsbergis, characteristics.” Tibet serves, he noted, Lithuania’s first head of state after its in- as “a litmus test for all countries in their dependence declaration from the Soviet support for human rights and democ- Union, and other MPs. Frustrated over racy.” President Sangay’s visit to Lithuania, on the topic of “Update on the human In reaction to a question about increas- the Chinese embassy declared the event rights situation in Tibet” on 6 June 2019. ing Chinese government harassment of as a ‘serious political incident’. He was joined by the Secretary General Tibetans abroad, Dr. Sangay said that The embassy further expressed that of Amnesty International Canada, Alex the number of protests against his ap- it would berate any organization that Neve, and Shawn Steil, Executive Di- pearances around the world, managed would attempt to provide a platform to rector, Greater China Policy and Coordi- from Beijing, have certainly increased. discuss the Tibet issue. nation, Global Affairs Canada. He also cited the danger presented by a Responding to the statements, CTA Dr. Sangay opened the session by recog- group in Canada, claiming to represent spokesperson Sonam N Dagpo said, nizing this year as the 60th anniversary Canadian Tibetans, that was spreading “Central Tibetan Administration is ap- of Tibetan Uprising Day, commemorat- misinformation, most probably direct- palled by the protest of Chinese Embas- ing the Tibetan uprising against the Chi- ed from China. He closed by thanking sy in Lithuania against President Lob- nese occupation of Tibet, and the 30th Canada for its support, recognizing that sang Sangay’s visit to Lithuania.” anniversary of the Tiananmen Square “justice was needed in Tibet.” He said President Lobsang Sangay is the Massacre. He also described the Chinese Alex Neve also underlined the dire situ- democratically elected leader of the Ti- government’s massive human rights vio- ation of human rights in China, broadly betan people who represents the voice of lation — the jailing of over a million Uy- outlining the evidence of surveillance, the six million Tibetans. ghurs. He praised the recent motion on intimidation, jailing and torture not only “The world knows that China occupied Tibet made by Senator Thanh Hai Ngo of Tibetans, but also of Falun Gong and invaded Tibet and Tibetans do not calling on the Government of Canada to members, human rights activists and enjoy religious freedom, human right, actively support the genuine autonomy Uyghurs. In response to questions on right to one’s own language, etc. in Ti- of Tibet, and also called on Canada to the way ahead, given these challenges, bet,” CTA Spokesperson said. ask for reciprocal diplomatic access to he strongly recommended that the Ca- President Sangay visited Lithuania on 6 Tibet. Dr. Sangay underlined that the Ti- nadian government review the recom- May to call on wider international com- betan government-in-exile continues to mendations given in the Canada Tibet munity and Lithuania in particular to ex- support His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Committee report, Trade and Human tend support for Tibet where the Presi- Middle Way Approach — the protec- Rights in Tibet: Consideration for a hu- dent talked about the prevailing situation tion and preservation of Tibetan culture, man rights sensitive trade policy, which inside Tibet at the conference in Seimas language, religion and national identity looks at Canada-China trade through a which was organised by a Tibet support — within the framework of the People’s human rights lens, describes how Tibet- group headed by MP Andrius Navickas Republic of China’s constitution. Ac- ans are particularly disadvantaged with- of parliament of Lithuania. cording to the Freedom House, Tibet is in the Chinese economy. He also cited No sooner was the Press event conclud- the second least free places in the world, 10 points that Amnesty International ed, news reports of CTA President’s visit after Syria. Canada recommended that the Canadian to Lithuania and the press conference he In response to questions from members government support, such as requesting addressed was broadcasted on Lithu- of the Standing Committee, Dr. Sangay that “Canadian diplomats, officials and anian national television on prime time reiterated that the autonomy within Chi- others be given unhindered access to Ti- for over 4 minutes. na that Tibetans were seeking “was less bet.” Mr. Neve strongly urged the Senate than granted to Hong Kong.” He noted to recommend that reports of threats and President Dr Sangay Appears that the lack of trust from the Chinese harassment of Tibetans in Canada by the government was hampering further the Before Canadian Senate Stand- Chinese government be properly inves- Sino-Tibetan dialogue on this issue, tigated through a coordinated strategy. ing Committee on Foreign Af- observing that the Chinese government Mr. Shawn Steil, Executive Director of fairs and Int’l Trade incorrectly believed Tibet’s push for au- Greater China Policy and Coordination, tonomy was a “hidden agenda for inde- Global Affairs Canada, described Cana- The Central Tibetan Administration pendence.” Dr. Sangay further updated da’s concern about the human rights sit- President, Dr. Lobsang Sangay, testified the human rights situation in Tibet, uation in China. He said the government at the Senate Standing Committee on saying that despite the Chinese govern- continued to call on China to protect Foreign Affairs and International Trade, ment’s destruction of over 90 percent all its citizens, and to press for access

MAY - JUNE 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 7 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE to Tibet. He agreed that Canadian gov- even hampering the basic exercises of gress on the lack of respect for human ernment policies on China needed to be other countries through severe political rights in Tibet. coordinated, and that it was early days intimidation. The Tibet Policy Act of 2002 urges the for such action by his newly established “The forced cancellation of our partici- president of the United States to encour- directorate. pation as representatives of one of the age direct dialogue between the govern- The chairperson, Senator A. Raynell greatest contributors to the Buddhist ment of the People’s Republic of China Andreychuk closed the session by not- tradition worldwide poses serious ques- and representatives of His Holiness the ing that one of the ways to bring some tions. Even more so, in the light that Dalai Lama. Chinese officials to account for their China itself is home to the largest Bud- The 2018 Reciprocal Access to Tibet actions might be to apply the Canadian dhist population in the world,” the Reli- Act establishes consequences for Chi- version of the Magnitsky Act, the Justice gion and Culture Kalon said. nese government officials responsible for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Describing the incident as alarming and for restricting access to Tibetan areas Act. She also thanked all for attending, worrying, he said such cases should by United States journalists, diplomats, and especially praised Dr. Sangay’s prompt the countries in questions to tourists, and citizens, including Tibetan frank and articulate presentation, which stand up and defend their core freedom Americans requires the State Depart- gave the committee the facts needed to and democratic principles instead of ca- ment to monitor the access that Ameri- “add to our dialogue.” pitulating to it. can diplomats, journalists and citizens The hearing is organized by the office The Asian Buddhist Conference for are granted to Tibetan areas of China. of Honorable Senator Thanh Hai Ngo in Peace was founded in 1970 in Ulaan- “Strong support for human rights must collaboration with Canada Tibet Com- baatar, Mongolia, as a voluntary move- always underlie America’s relationship mittee. ment of followers of Buddha, both with the government of China. There is monks and lay, striving to disseminate a strong, bipartisan, and growing major- CTA’s Religious and Cultural and implement the teachings of the En- ity in Congress that is deeply concerned Department Barred from At- lightened One on peace and harmony, about the situation in Tibet, and we en- tending the Asian Buddhist compassion and loving-kindness for all courage President Trump and Secretary sentient beings on Earth. Pompeo to join us by fully implement- Conference for Peace 2019 It aims to “bring together efforts of ing both the Tibet Policy Act and the Buddhists in support of consolidating Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act,” said universal peace, harmony, and coopera- Congressman McGovern. tion among the Asian countries and its “Members of Congress and the Admin- people.” istration must affirm the peaceful desires Tibetan Buddhist representatives from of the Tibetan people for greater auton- the different schools including Jhonang omy and freedom within China,” said are participating in the Conference. Congressman Smith. “We should demand open access to Ti- Members of US Congress bet by journalists and diplomats, and Urge Trump Administration to we should raise the cases of prisoners of conscience with Chinese officials. Implement Key Tibet Legisla- Congress passed the Tibet Policy Act of Beijing has pressured Mongolia into de- tion 2002 and the 2018 Reciprocal Access to nying permits for CTA representatives Tibet Act to advance religious and polit- who were formerly scheduled to partici- ical freedom in Tibet, and the Adminis- pate in the Asian Buddhist Conference Co-chairs of the bipartisan Tom Lantos tration must act to fully implement these for Peace in Mongolia starting Friday. Human Rights Commission Rep. James laws. U.S. leadership on these issues is Kalon [Minister] of Department of Re- P. McGovern (D-MA) and Rep. Christo- critical, and we must demonstrate that ligion and Culture, Venerable Karma pher H. Smith (R-NJ) released a biparti- universally-recognized human rights, Gelek Yuthok and other representatives san letter addressed to Secretary of State especially religious freedom, matter ev- from the Central Tibetan Administra- Mike Pompeo, signed by 32 Members of erywhere – especially in Tibet.” tion’s Religion and Culture department Congress, urging the Trump Administra- A copy of the signed letter is available who were expected to participate in the tion to promptly implement key legisla- here. Sourced from ICT. Asian Buddhist Conference were denied tion passed by Congress to guide United The bipartisan Tom Lantos Human visa at the very last moment. States policy on Tibet. Rights Commission was established by Speaking exclusively to Tibet News In light of the unabated repression of unanimous consent in the United States Bureau, Kalon Ven Karma Gelek said fundamental human rights in Tibet, the House of Representatives to promote, the unfortunate development was the letter urged robust implementation of defend and advocate for international clearest sign yet of China’s aggressive the Tibet Policy Act of 2002 and the human rights. The Commission under- campaign of undermining core demo- 2018 Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act— takes public education activities, pro- cratic freedoms across the world, and key legislation passed by the US Con- vides expert human rights advice and

8 TIBETAN BULLETIN MAY - JUNE 2019 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE encourages Members of Congress to ternational Trade and the Standing Sen- dissidents; and actively engage in human rights issues. ate Committee on Human Rights held a (d) grant Canada reciprocal diplomat- special joint meeting with Dr. Lobsang ic access to Tibet without limitations; Senator Ngo of Canada moves Sangay, the first elected President of the That the Senate also urge the Govern- a motion on Tibet; urges Sino- Central Tibetan Administration, also ment of Canada to acknowledge the Tibet dialogue based on Middle known as the Tibetan government in ex- Dalai Lama’s appointment of Gendhun ile.” Choekyi Nyima as the official eleventh Way Approach “At that meeting, Mr. Sangay indicated Panchen Lama; and that, by adopting a motion on Tibet, the That a message be sent to the House of Canada’s Conservative Party Senator Government of Canada could actively Commons to acquaint it with the forego- Hon Thanh Hai Ngo moved a motion in support the initiation of a dialogue be- ing. the Senate to raise awareness of the seri- tween China and Tibet, without precon- ous and recurring human rights abuses ditions, in the spirit of the middle way Portuguese Parliament to Gov- in Tibet and to urge the Government approach proposed by the Dalai Lama. ernment: Ask China to Release of Canada to take stronger action with The middle way approach would pro- China in support of genuine autonomy vide for genuine autonomy for Tibet the 11th Panchen Lama for Tibet. within the framework of China’s consti- Speaking at the Senate debate, Sen Ngo tution and laws.” In a first of its kind The Assembly of the expressed he was “deeply distraught” at Further quoting President Dr Sangay, Republic of Portugal on Tuesday con- how restrictions on fundamental rights Senator continued, “As Dr. Lobsang demned “the forced disappearance of and freedoms including freedom of ex- Sangay affirmed during his testimony, the world’s youngest political prisoner,” pression, religion, movement, and con- China has implemented highly intrusive the 11th Panchen Lama and urged “the science remain severely curtailed and surveillance systems within Tibet to re- Portuguese Government to appeal to the increasingly repressive in Tibet. strict travel and track the movement of Chinese Government for his release.” “We, as parliamentarians, cannot stand individuals in an effort to curb any form Called a Vow of Condemnation and idle on this issue. The time has come for of dissent. For instance, Tibetans in their Preoccupation with regards to the 11th the Government of Canada to do more,” daily lives are searched and required to Panchen Lama, the text was presented to the Senator said. present their identification at numerous the parliament yesterday by Mr Silva, a “The fundamental rights and freedoms check points and are often denied a pass- Tibet supporter of PAN Party (People- that we have been granted and contin- port for international travel. Freedom Animals-Nature) and was adopted today ue to protect here in Canada, including House’s Freedom in the World 2017 with 29 votes in favour and 19 against. freedom of expression, religion, move- report on Tibet not only outlines the re- The document obtained favorable votes ment and conscience, are severely re- strictions on freedom but gave the Tibet- from BE (Left Block), Independent stricted and increasingly repressive in an Autonomous Region the worst pos- member Paulo Trigo Pereira, MP Isa- the Tibetan Autonomous Region, TAR, sible rating for both political rights and bel Santos of PS and four MPs from the and in greater Tibet. The Tibetan people civil liberties — worse than even Syria.” CDS-PP, namely Telmo Correia, Filipe are subjected to these restrictions at the Attesting to President Dr Sangay’s rec- Anacoreta Correia, Ana Rita Bessa and hands of the Chinese Communist Party ommendation that Canada demands rec- João Almeida. and continue to suffer because of this.” iprocity in access to Tibet for Canadian Only the Communist Party voted against Especially at a time when the Canadian government representatives and parlia- it. The PS (Socialist Party), PSD ( Social Government is increasingly focused on mentarians, Senator said this is precisely Democrat), CDS-PP (Christian Demo- strengthening its trade and economic what Canada should and must do. crat) and PEV (The Greens) abstained. ties with China, Sen Ngo stressed that Below is the text of the Motion on Ti- The Advisory assumed a “convic- China must remember to voice its con- bet moved in the Canadian Senate on 14 tion vote and concern for the 24 years cerns about violations of the fundamen- May and introduced on 21 March 2019. of forced disappearance” of Gedhun tal rights and freedoms of Tibetans with That the Senate urge the Government of Choekyi Nyima which was presented the Chinese authorities at high-level Canada to actively support the genuine by the PAN (People-Animals-Nature) meetings and in bilateral or multilateral autonomy of Tibet and, consequently, Party. statements. to also call for the People’s Republic of With this vote, “the Assembly of the He recalled the testimony of CTA Presi- China to: Republic, meeting in plenary session, dent Dr Lobsang Sangay at the Standing (a) renew the Sino-Tibetan dialogue condemns the forced disappearance of Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs in good faith and based on the Middle the world’s youngest political prisoner, and International Trade and the Stand- Way Approach; the 11th Panchen Lama, and expresses ing Senate Committee on Human Rights (b) respect the linguistics rights, free- its concern at the lack of knowledge of joint hearing on 12 June last year. dom of movement, thought, conscience his whereabouts and his physical, men- “On June 12, 2018, the Standing Senate and religion of the people in Tibet; tal and emotional, urging the Portuguese Committee on Foreign Affairs and In- (c) free all Tibetan political prison- Government to appeal to the Chinese ers, and cease all arbitrary detention of Government for their release. ”

MAY - JUNE 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 9 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE

CTA President addresses the advice about “not forgetting old friends, meeting of Cross Party Group while making new friends” he addressed them as “friends” and welcomed new for Tibet in Scottish Parliament; members. Explaining with examples of and meets Members of Scottish CCP interference, particularly in Austra- Parliament lia, he urged the United Kingdom to be careful about the impact of China’s rise In the introductory text of this vote, and influence. With reference to Scot- the PAN stated that “on May 14, 1995, land, he noted, “support for Tibet here Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, aged six, was hasn’t waned, all thanks to you”. recognized by the Dalai Lama as the Referring to CCP’s policy during the reincarnation of the Panchen Lama, the period 1950s-1960s when the Chinese second most important religious leader authorities destroyed more than 98% of in Tibet”, but “Three days later, on May the monasteries in Tibet aimed at elimi- 17, Gedhun and his family disappeared, The President Dr Lobsang Sangay was nating all traces of Tibetan religion, cul- taken away by the Chinese authorities.” hosted for a lunch meeting inside the ture and identity, he remarked how with “China has justified its disappearance, Scottish Parliament by Hon Linda Fa- the blessings of His Holiness the Dalai claiming that it was for its own protec- biani MSP & also chair of Cross Party Lama and through the concerted efforts tion against ‘separatist’ forces.” For Group for Tibet in Scottish Parliament, of the Tibetans in exile, Buddhism was more than two decades the Chinese gov- and Hon Ross Greer, Green MSP for revived the world over, and this he high- ernment has refused requests from UN West Scotland on 25 June 2019. The lighted as spiritual victory over China. human rights experts and governments, Secretary of the CPG was also present at He expressed optimism that gradually access to Gedhun Choekyi Nyima and the lunch. Hon Linda Fabiani MSP is the Tibetans would replicate this success his family to check their health and well- Deputy Presiding Officer of the Scottish on the political front as well. He based being, “adds the PAN. Parliament. this optimism on the determination and At the end of 1995, the People’s Repub- The CPG had arranged for the President strength of the Tibetans inside Tibet lic of China designated another child, to meet with individual MSPs inside a who, he said, continued to remain non- Gyaincain Norbu, as the “official” rein- room at the Scottish Parliament, after violent and peaceful against intensifying carnation of the 11th Panchen Lama. lunch. There the President met with ten repression. The PAN – which in this legislature has Members of Scottish Parliament from In a lengthy and interactive question & for the first time an elected Member An- two political parties: Scottish National answer session covering topics as varied dré Silva – noted that “in 2013 the UN Party & Scottish Green Party, includ- as UK government’s support for Tibet, Committee on the Rights of the Child ing three senior most members of Par- Tibet’s environment, the dialogue pro- expressed its concern about the 11th liament, who have been MSPs since the cess and the role that the CPG members Panchen Lama” and asked China to “im- devolution of powers to the Scottish Par- can play in the Tibet movement, the mediately allow an independent expert liament. In his one to one interactions President addressed them with in-depth to visit him”, but without success. with the MSPs, the President expressed clarification. The PAN pointed to the disappearance his happiness at visiting Scotland for He referred to the UK’s support for Ti- of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima as “a gross the first time and thanked them for their bet as “improving”. He suggested that and flagrant violation of human rights interest in meeting with him, and for MSPs from the CPG could table a bill and fundamental freedoms”, which vio- their support. He personally extended calling for resolution of the Tibet issue lates the United Nations Convention for invitations to them to visit Dharamshala, through dialogue based on the Middle the Protection of All Persons from En- India. Stressing specifically on the im- Way Approach; and also a motion ac- forced Disappearance”. portance of the Tibetan plateau in de- knowledging the democratic system of While sharing this ‘good news’ with termining monsoon pattern and climate Tibetan administration in exile. He wel- Representative Tashi Phuntsok, Ms change in the rest of the world, he urged comed a delegation visit from the CPG Alexandra Correia, Coordinator, Ti- the MSPs to speak out for protection of to Dharamshala, India. bet Support Group, Portugal (Grupo de Tibet’s fragile environment. The President also called on the MSPs Apoio ao Tibete-Portugal) said that she In his evening talk at the meeting of the to take note of China’s much-touted Belt was most pleased with this advisory leg- Cross Party Group for Tibet, well at- and Road Initiative and to take lesson islative work though non-binding. She tended by CPG members, the President from Tibet’s example wherein a single said such a thing has never happened began by thanking each and every one of road built by the CCP in the 1950s even- before in Portugal. the members for their support for Tibet. tually led to Tibet’s complete occupation Given the extreme Chinese influence He stated that he had nothing to offer to in 1959. with the parliamentarians since 2008, them in return other than gratitude for In conclusion, the President painted a evident from the large abstention, she their steadfast support through the years. picture of optimism and hope when he rejoiced at this as ‘a good sign’. Recalling His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s remarked that there was now a renewed interest, around the world, in what the

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Tibet example can teach about how to ing addressed the gathering of Chinese DIIR hosted a brief ceremony earlier to- deal with China. He said that all is not people on Tibetan situations, and Rep- day to welcome their new Secretary. lost and “not just that, we are gaining resentative Ngodup Tsering provided a Secretary Sonam Dagpo congratulated ground”. power point presentation on the current the newly appointed Secretary and said The members appreciated the Presi- situation in Tibet which particularly em- Mr Arya with his illustrious academic dent’s presence in their midst at the phasized ethnic oppression and religious profile and decades of experience in in- Scottish Parliament and thanked him for persecution in Tibet. formation and international affairs was his time and address. On behalf of the supremely qualified to lead the Informa- CPG, the members presented the Presi- Sikkim Chief Minister and Min- tion wing of Central Tibetan Adminis- dent with Scottish gifts for remembrance isters Attend the 34th Birth- tration. and revisit. Director of Tibet Policy Institute, Secre- day Celebration of Gyalwang tary Tsewang Dolma, Secretary Tsering Karmapa Celebrated at Tsurpu Yangkey and Additional Secretary Che- Representative Ngodup Tsering Labrang mi Tseyang along with the staff of DIIR Attends Taiwan International felicitated Mr Arya with traditional Ti- Religious Freedom Forum On behalf of the Kashag of Central Ti- betan scarves. Chaired by Taiwan President betan Administration, Tibetan Settle- Mr Tsewang Gyalpo has served the ment Officer, Gangtok attended the Central Tibetan Administration for over grand ceremony of His Eminence the 30 years, most notably as Secretary of 17th Gyalwang Karmapa Ogyen Trinley the Office of Tibet, Japan, Secretary of Dorje’s 34th birthday celebration held the Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai at Tsurpu Labrang, the seat of His Emi- Lama in New Delhi, Deputy Secretary nence in India on 26 June 2019. of Department of Finance and also as The ceremony was blessed with the the President of the Charitable Trust Ti- presence of His Eminence Goshir Gyalt- betan Handicraft Exports and Director sab Rinpoche. of Paljor Publications. Prior to his recent Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim Shri. promotion by the Kashag, he was the Prem Singh Tamang also graced the oc- Additional Secretary of Department of Information and International Relations. Representative Ngodup Tsering attend- casion as the Chief Guest. He was ac- ed the Taiwan International Religious companied by Sikkim Govt’s Educa- Kunga Tsering Sworn in as Freedom Forum, which was organised tion Minister Shri Kunga Nima Lepcha and Ecclesiastical Minister Shri Sonam New Settlement Officer of by the Heritage Foundation, China Aid, Tibetans in Dharamshala Presbyterian Church and Taiwan Asso- Lama. ciation for China Human Rights from 30 Mrs. Mingyur Youdon, Tibetan Set- May to 1 June. The forum was co/hosted tlement Officer, Gangtok conveyed by the Freedom House, Center for Reli- Kashag’s statement on the auspicious gious Liberty, Victims of Communism, occasion of His Eminence’ 34 Birthday. and the International Religious Freedom Roundtable. Tsewang Gyalpo Arya assumes The Forum was presided over by Dr. charge as Information Secretary Tsai Ing-wen, the President of Taiwan. of DIIR President Ing-wen stressed the impor- tance of religious freedom and the need to use moral force to protect it. Paying her respect to His Holiness the The official handover ceremony be- Dalai Lama and US Ambassador At tween the outgoing settlement officer large-Samuel Brownback, she empha- Mr. Dawa Rinchen and new officer Mr. sized Taiwan’s commitment to religious Kunga Tsering were held on 18 June freedom for all. The Director for the 2019 at Dharamshala. American Institute in Taiwan and the After completing his service tenure for Mayor of Hsinchu City were the guests 3 years, former settlement officer Mr. of honour. The forum was also attended Dawa Rinchen submitted the position by several members of parliament from Dharamshala: Mr Tsewang Gyalpo Arya to the newly elected officer Mr. Kunga different countries. today assumed charge as Information Tsering in the presence of representa- The Vice President of Taiwan, Chen Secretary of the Department of Informa- tives from nunneries and monasteries, Chien-jen, attended the afternoon ses- tion and International Relations (DIIR), representatives of the school, NGOs, sion where Representative Dawa Tser- CTA. media and ITFA Executive members. MAY - JUNE 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 11 FOCUS

His Holiness the Dalai Lama thanks Tibet supporters at the 7th World Par- liamentarian Convention on Tibet

mitment as he mentioned is to preserve Tibetan language and culture as His Ho- liness earnestly believes that the Tibetan language is the best form of language to describe and learn about ancient Indian knowledge, psychology and philosophy particularly quantum physics. He further noted that studying Nalanda tradition is not just about the religious matter but rather an academic subject which makes the preservation of Tibetan language all the more important. The reason why even non-Buddhist countries nowadays including scientists are expressing keen interests in learning ancient Indian Psy- chology and Philosophy. The 7th World Parliamentarians’ Con- has led to many communities including “Ever since I retired from political re- vention on Tibet that convened from 7-10 some Chinese to show deep concern for sponsibilities my main concern and com- May includes some of the prominent fig- the cause of Tibet. mitment have been this” asserted His ures of Tibet support group including His Holiness then revealed some of his Holiness the Dalai Lama. parliamentary leaders and esteemed del- main concerns and commitments regard- Addressing the gathering, His Holiness egates at Riga, Latvia who deliberated ing Tibet ever since he devolved from called them the hope and determination and engaged in ushering global support the political obligations in 2001. of Tibetan people because when the Ti- for Tibet through concerted efforts. “My main commitment regarding Tibet betans fled their country and came into On the first day of the World Parliamen- is firstly towards Tibet’s environment,” exile they were in a constant battle with tarians’ Convention on Tibet, a special said His Holiness the Dalai Lama. He dwindling hope, however, their undying video message from His Holiness the narrated how a friend of his a Chinese moral principles and their just cause at- Dalai Lama was featured to the gathering ecologist once told him that Tibet is the tracted many supporters who offered in which His Holiness offered his greet- third pole and that the effect of global help and rescue as they were intrigued ings and gratitude to the friends of Tibet. warming on Tibetan Plateau is as much by the positive attitude and resilience of His Holiness informed that he always as south pole and north pole. His Holi- Tibetan people. considers the supporters of Tibet as pro- ness, therefore, maintains taking care of Once again His Holiness the Dalai Lama justice more than pro-Tibet as he be- Tibet’s environment among his top pri- emphasised that Tibet is not seeking for lieves the struggle of Tibet is very much orities. Independence as approach and effort has based on moral principle and thoroughly His Holiness’ second concern and com- always been to remain within the do- committed on the nonviolent way which main of the People Republic of China and maintain a harmonious coexistence with the Chinese people. The Chinese constitution mentioned certain rights to be given to the Tibetan people but so far those rights have not been implemented by them. His Holiness the Dalai Lama thus ex- pressed his gratitude and urged the friends of Tibet to render continuous support to Tibet cause and Tibetan peo- ple as he noted platforms such as this one and gatherings extremely important and helpful.

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The Riga Declaration: 7th World Parliamentary Convention on Tibet

7th World Parliamentary Convention on Tibet 7-10 May 2019, Riga, Latvia

WHEREAS: Expressing solidarity with all others suf- climate change, as well as the impor- We, the delegations to the 7th World fering oppression under the rule of the tance of the Tibetan rivers as the source Parliamentarians’ Convention on Tibet Government of the PRC; of water for much of Asia’s population; meeting in Riga, Latvia, from 7-10 May WE THEREFORE: Express concern about the environmen- 2019; Reiterate our firm conviction that the tal degradation on the Tibetan Plateau, Recalling the findings and statements Sino-Tibetan conflict can be resolved which led to an unprecedented number of the previous six Conventions held in peacefully through negotiations between of natural disasters since 2016, primar- New Delhi, Vilnius, Washington D.C., the government of the PRC and envoys ily caused by excessive resource extrac- Edinburgh, Rome and Ottawa, and hav- of His Holiness the Dalai Lama; tion and dam construction, as well as the accumulation of waste and dumping of ing reviewed the activities and programs Reaffirm that Tibet has historically nev- that resulted from these meetings and toxic waste on the Plateau and in Tibet’s er been part of China, that it was invaded waters; their impact; in violation of international law and has Appreciating the strong participation since been under illegal occupation by Express concern at the dire situation of from countries all over the world at the the PRC, and that consequently Tibet has nomads who have been forcibly resettled Convention, not lost its Statehood under international into new towns and who are deprived of the basic necessities of life; Thankful for the participation of those law; members of Parliament who came to Reject the false claim of the Govern- Are deeply concerned and saddened Riga despite having been pressured by ment of the PRC that Tibet has been a by the 153 Tibetans who have set fire the Government of the People’s Repub- part of China since ancient times and re- to themselves in protest against Chinese lic of China (PRC) not to attend, and ject as unacceptable its demand that His rule in Tibet and while calling for the re- deeply concerned at the PRC’s attempt Holiness publicly accept this claim as a turn of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to to stop them; precondition to substantive talks; Tibet; Deeply concerned about the reluctance Recall that it has been 60 years since Express concern at the increasing secu- of the PRC to resume the dialogue with H.H. the Dalai Lama fled into exile to rity measures taken in Tibet that curtail representatives of His Holiness the Dalai India where he reconstituted the Tibetan the freedom of expression, religion and Lama since 2010; government, the Central Tibetan Admin- movement of the Tibetans; Recognizing the urgency of resolving istration, which is currently democrati- Express concern at the PRC govern- the international Sino-Tibetan conflict cally elected and is the legitimate repre- ment’s harassment of Tibetans living in caused by the invasion of Tibet by the sentative of the Tibetan people; exile and its instigation of disharmony PRC in 1949/50 and its illegal annexa- Acknowledge that it has been 60 years within Tibetan communities in exile; tion in 1951; since His Holiness the Dalai Lama fled Recognize that the Middle Way Ap- Having reviewed the grave situation in into exile in India where he set up a proach is the most viable approach to Tibet as well as the policies of the Gov- democratic government representing the peacefully resolve the Sino-Tibetan con- ernment of the People’s Republic of Tibetan people; flict; and endorse the principles set out in China (PRC) in relation to the Tibetan Express solidarity with the Tibetan the Memorandum on Genuine Autonomy people; people in their non-violent struggle for for the Tibetan People, which provide their rights including their right to self- the basis for a realistic and sustainable Recognizing the critical role played by political solution to the issue of Tibet; parliamentarians and parliamentary bod- determination; ies in raising awareness of the grave Deplore the assaults on the Tibetan cul- Affirm that the Buddhist practice of situation in Tibet with governments and ture, language, religious practice and identifying and recognising the reincar- international institutions and in formu- way of life of Tibetans, as well as the nation of Dalai Lamas and Tulkus is a re- lating policies in support of the cause of continued population transfer of Chinese ligious matter that should not be subject the Tibetan people; into Tibet, which gravely impacts these to external political interference by the government of the PRC; Recognizing that respect for interna- and other aspects of the Tibetan identity; tional law is a precondition for peaceful Recognise the critical role of the Tibetan Call on parliaments and governments relation between States; Plateau with respect to world climate and to challenge and impede the PRC Gov-

MAY - JUNE 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 13 FOCUS ernment’s use of sharp power to manipu- late and divide societies and its abuse of 6th All India Tibet Support Groups Conference cyber space; Makes a Resounding Start in Dharamshala, 21 Welcome the adoption of the Recipro- cal Access to Tibet Act (RATA) by the Indian States Participate United States in December 2018 as well as the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act and urge other coun- tries to speedily adopt such legislation; Urge governments to act in ways that more truthfully reflects the sentiments of the people in their country towards Tibet and its people; Urge parliaments and governments to receive leaders and other representatives of the Central Tibetan Administration to discuss all issues pertaining to improv- ing the situation in Tibet and resolving the Sino-Tibetan conflict; Call upon the Government of the PRC: To end the repression of Tibetans, the Against the backdrop of the World Par- Shri Rinchen Khando Khrimey, National violation of their fundamental human liamentary Convention on Tibet which Convener, Core Group for Tibetan Cause rights and freedoms. recently concluded in Latvia, the 6th All described the conference as an extraor- India Tibet Support Groups Conference dinary opportunity to reinvigorate and To end its control of the cultural, reli- was convened here at the Central Tibetan re-strategise activities and initiatives of gious and social life of Tibetans and to Secretariat with the participation of 216 the Tibet Support Groups in view of the release the Panchen Lama, who has been members of Tibet Support Groups repre- present critical scenario of Tibet while held captive for the past 24 years. senting 21 states across India. focusing on the strategies and action To give unimpeded access to Tibet to for- Representatives from 21 Indian states campaign on 5/50 vision of the CTA. eign journalists, scholars and research- have converged at the seat of Central He said the conference reaffirms the ers, diplomats and other foreign citizens, Tibetan Administration to commemorate same spirit of support, solidarity and including those of Tibetan origin. the 60th year since His Holiness the Da- friendship expressed at the first ever All To cease its policies and practices that lai Lama and the Tibetan people sought India Tibet Convention in 1959 under harm the natural environment of the Ti- exile in India and the 60th year since the the leadership of Loknayak Jayaprakash betan Plateau. first All India Convention on Tibet of Narayan. and to resume the dialogue with envoys Kolkata 1959. “We, as friends of Tibet, pledge to carry of His Holiness the Dalai Lama without With Indian leaders and supporters from forward our commitment towards the Ti- preconditions. political, educational, business, and spir- betan freedom movement in full strength itual walks of life among speakers and and vigour and reaffirm the same spirit participants, the enduring support, love of support, solidarity and friendship ex- and friendship and hospitality of India pressed at the first ever All India Tibet was celebrated once again. Convention in 1959 under the leadership Key Indian speakers including Shri of Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan,” RK Khrimey, National Convener, Core Shri Khrimey added. Group for Tibetan Cause, Shri Indresh Dr. Anand Kumar, National President, Kumar, Patron, Bharat Tibbat Sahyog India Tibet Friendship Society said it Manch and RSS Leader, Dr. Anand was an opportune moment to review the Kumar, National President, India Tibet sixty long years of the engagement of In- For detailed news visit: Friendship Society, and Shri Surender dian supporters and friends of Tibet and www.tibet.net Kumar, National Co-Convener, Core remarked upon how “the little assembly Group unanimously called for the reso- of citizens voice in Kolkata grew into lution of the Tibet issue through a peace- a big river of consciousness, humanity, ful, democratic means based on dialogue solidarity and citizen’s voice in these to facilitate the honourable return of the sixty years.” Tibetan people to Tibet.

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“It all started as a small candle of light not checked. The opening event of the Conference in 1959 under the noble guidance of In an expression of warmth and grati- concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri Loknath Jai Prakash Narayan to declare tude, President Dr Lobsang Sangay de- Surender Kumar, National Co-Convener, and say it loud and clear that if Tibet is livered an enthusiastic speech in Hindi Core Group for Tibetan Cause. occupied by the evil designs of our vile and said that no other country has done President Dr Sangay along with other neighbour People’s Republic of China, more for Tibet than India and no people key speakers unveiled the Hindi trans- they should not feel disappointed. They of a country has been so kind, generous lation of CTA’s publication titled ‘Tibet have India, which is not only their neigh- as the Indian people is to Tibetans. was Never Part of China but the Middle bour but also their Gurudesh, home of “And I hope that India retains its unpar- Way Approach Remains a Viable Solu- Buddha. You are welcome to stay here tion’. and hold on to your dignity, identity and alleled support for Tibet until our aspira- quest for justice.” tions are realised,” he added. Over the course of two days, the 200-strong participants will extensively “On one hand, the little assembly of citi- Dr Sangay, however, stressed that an informed political discourse on Tibet deliberate on the strategies and action zens voice in Kolkata has grown into a campaigns on the Five Fifty Vision of big river of consciousness, humanity, should be enabled within the Indian civil society. Central Tibetan Administration based on solidarity and citizen’s voice in these the recommendations from the Five Fifty sixty years.” He continued, “That little “Freedom House reported for three con- Forum on Resilience and The Youth Five light is today grown into a large flame secutive years that Syria was the least Fifty Forum. which is symbolised by the Tibetan Gov- free country and Tibet as the second least ernment in Exile in Dharamshala.” free country. Everyone knows about Syr- The Plenary sessions will feature presen- ia but we must also know that Tibet is tations on ‘The Five Fifty Vision of Cen- “The Tibetan transition is so so remark- tral Tibetan Administration’ by President able for a variety of reasons including the second least free country in the world after Syria.” Dr Sangay; Importance of Tibet to India their wisdom, value, commitment, and by Dr Abanti Bhattacharya, Associate resilience against one of the mightiest Urging India to be at the forefront in Professor, Chinese Studies, Delhi Uni- empires that we know today,” said Dr fighting the imperialist and expansionist versity; Asia and India’s Role in Tibet’s Anand. designs of China, President also men- Issue by Dr Anand Kumar, Role of Core Shri Indresh Kumar discussed the un- tioned the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Group and Tibet Support Groups in India precedented unrest at India-China border Act, a US legislation that calls for ban on by Shri Vijay Kranti, Senior Consultant, which once used to be the friendly and access for Chinese government officials Doordarshan among others. responsible for restricting access for US harmonious border between Tibet and The conference is being organised by India. journalists, diplomats, tourists, and citi- zens, including Tibetan Americans to Ti- the Core Group for Tibetan Cause, an Agreeing with the rest of the speakers, bet. apex coordinating body of Tibet support Shri Indresh Kumar identified China’s groups all over India and is facilitated political, military advances as an esca- He urged India to speedily adopt such by the India Tibet Coordination Office lating threat to India’s national security policies and legislation that enables reci- based in New Delhi. and assured that India won’t deter from procity with China and not punishment taking bold actions if such advances are or retaliation. Declaration of the Sixth All India Tibet Support Groups Conference

The Sixth All India Tibet Support Groups the first-ever Tibet support conference fessor Anand Kumar, National President Conference was convened from 15 to 16 across the world called “All India Con- of India Tibet Friendship Society, Shri June 2019, at Dharamshala, Himachal vention on Tibet” held in Kolkata in Surender Kumar, National Co-Convener, Pradesh, India. 216 delegates represent- 1959 and also commemorated the 60th Core Group for Tibetan Cause, Shri Ajai ing Indian Tibet Support Groups from year since His Holiness the Dalai Lama Singh, President, India Tibet Friendship 21 states across India assembled for the and Tibetans came to India. Association, Dharamshala and Shri Ar- conference to express their solidarity The keynote speakers at the two day vind Nikose, Regional Convener, Core with the Tibetan people in their legiti- Conference were Shri Rinchen Khando Group for Tibetan Cause. mate quest for dignity, justice and peace Khrimey, the National Convener, Core The delegates of the sixth all India Tibet in Tibet and to show their gratitude to Group for Tibetan Cause, Hon’ble Si- Support Groups Conference passed the His Holiness the Dalai Lama for his kyong Dr Lobsang Sangay, President of action plan and adopted a declaration ti- unrelenting works for the promotion of Central Tibetan Administration, Kalon tled Dharamshala Declaration in Support world peace. Choekyong Wangchuk, Department of of Tibet. See the full text of the Declara- This Sixth All India Tibet Support group Health, CTA, Shri Indresh Kumar, Pa- tion below: commemorated the 60th year since tron, Bharat Tibbat Sahyog Manch, Pro-

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sue of Tibet, Support the Five-Fifty vision of the Central Tibetan Administration, Undertake to create awareness across India about the last 60 years of repres- sion of Tibetans under the Chinese re- gime and 60 years of resistance by Tibet- ans against the Chinese oppression, Strongly Urge the Government of India to confer Bharat Ratna, India’s Highest Civilian Award to the Nobel Laureate His Holiness the Dalai Lama for His im- DHARAMSHALA DECLARATION IN Recalling the Indian citizens’ initiative mense contribution in creating goodwill SUPPORT OF TIBET to support the Tibetan cause which led to for India across the globe and for being an ambassador of the great ideas of The Sixth All India Tibet Support Groups the first-ever Tibet Support Conference, Conference, All India Tibet Convention at Calcutta Indian culture such as ahimsa, compas- (Kolkata) in 1959 under the leadership sion, inner values, religious harmony Having been convened from 15 to 16 of Loknayak Jaiprakash Narayan, and global fraternity, and June 2019, at Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India, Having been gravely Recognizing that Tibetans are entitled to Call Upon the Government of India to concerned by – the systemic violations enjoy the basic human rights which are prevail upon the People’s Republic of of human rights in Tibet under the illegal universally accepted, China to initiate constructive negotia- occupation of the People’s WE, the 216 DELEGATES of Indian tions with the representatives of Central Tibetan Administration under the guid- Republic of China, – the repressive poli- Tibet Support Groups from across India assembled at the Sixth All India Tibet ance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama for cies enforced by the Chinese authorities speedy resolution of the issue of Tibet, to suppress the distinctive cultural, reli- Support Groups Conference hereby, gious and national identity of Tibetans Express Our Immense Gratitude to Call Upon the Government of People’s which have led to 153 self-immolations His Holiness the Dalai Lama who is a Republic of China to IMMEDIATELY by Tibetans within Tibet as means of messenger of peace, hope and harmony STOP peaceful political protest, – the pervasive for his unrelenting works for the promo- – the suppression, oppression and repres- surveillance of the Tibetan people and tion of world peace, sion of the Tibetan people and respect the militarization of the Tibetan plateau Reaffirm Our Commitment to support their rights to freedom of religion and which threatens the peace and stability of Tibetan people’s legitimate quest for dig- belief, freedom of movement, freedom Asia especially the Indian sub-continent, nity, justice and peace in Tibet, of peaceful assembly, freedom to pre- – the extensive environmental destruc- serve their distinct language, culture tion of the “Roof of the World”- Tibet Recognize the Central Tibetan Adminis- and way of life, and other basic human and the continuous damming of rivers of tration as the legitimate representative of rights, Tibet by the Chinese authorities, Tibetans within and outside Tibet, – the militarization of the Tibetan plateau Remembering the ancient spiritual, re- Acknowledge and Extend our complete leading to arms race which threatens ligious, social and cultural ties between support to the Middle Way Approach the peace and stability of Asia, espe- India and Tibet lasting for over 1,400 policy which we are convinced to be a cially the Indian subcontinent, years, viable and honorable solution to the is- – the destruction and degradation of Ti- bet’s ecology and the damming of the rivers of Tibet which affects the lower riparian countries like India, Bangla- desh and others, Call Upon the international community to support Central Tibetan Administra- tion, the legitimate representative of Ti- betans inside and outside Tibet in their pursuit for peaceful resolution of the is- sue of Tibet and in their legitimate quest for dignity, justice and peace in Tibet, And hereby so declared.

16 TIBETAN BULLETIN MAY - JUNE 2019 FOCUS

11th Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace Concludes with Strongest Repre- sentation of Tibetan Buddhist Tradition

Despite the forced cancellation of Kalon of CTA’s Department of Religion and Culture’s participation at the 11th Gen- eral Assembly of Asian Buddhist Con- ference for Peace in Ulan Baatar, The Tibetan delegation made the strongest representation at the Conference with the full participation of representatives of all the major Buddhist traditions as well as Jonang and Bon traditions. The Tibetan Buddhist delegation was led by Ven Thupten Ngodup, the medium of state Nechung Oracle. His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Honorary Representative Telo Tulku Rinpoche also joined and presented His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s message to the conference on the occa- sion of the 50th anniversary of the ABCP and spoke during the 2nd-day plenary session dedicated to “Preservation of Heritage and Values.” The 11th general assembly of the Asian ies representing India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, At the 11th ABCP conference conclud- Buddhist Conference for Peace (ABCP) USSR, Japan Vietnam, Malaysia, Singa- ed today, Telo Tulku Rinpoche spoke concluded with a resolution being passed pore and Mongolia. on His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s four after three-day deliberations on the The Conference principally began as main principal commitments and empha- changes in its chapter, rules, and regula- sized on how closely linked His Holiness tions. a voluntary movement of followers of Lord Buddha, both monks and lay, striv- views of universal responsibility were in In 1969, three legendary monks of ing to disseminate and implement the line with the principles of the ABCP. the 20th century, the most Venerable teachings of the Enlightened One on On the last day of the conference, the Khambo Lama Samagiin Gombojav of peace and harmony, compassion and board members met for many hours dis- Mongolia, the most venerable Khambo loving-kindness for all sentient beings cussing the changes to be made in the Lama Janbaldorj Gomboev of USSR on Earth. chapter and held an election for new Vice and the most Venerable Kushok Bakula The ABCP has convened the following presidents and the general secretary of Rinpoche from India met in remote re- ABCP. The resolution was unanimously gion of Siberia, Soviet Russia to discuss 11 General Assembly’s so far: 1st Ulan Baatar, Mongolia in 1970; 2nd Kandy, adopted and closing ceremony was held the prevailing situation of Buddhism in followed by a Dinner reception and cul- the region and to explore the possibility Sri Lanka in 1972; 3rd New Delhi, In- dia 1974; 4th Kyoto, Japan 1976; 5th ture performance held in the Battsagan of setting up a Pan-Asia Buddhist Orga- Hall of Gandan Teckchenling Monastery. nization. The momentum further grew Ulan Baatar, Mongolia 1979; 6th Ulan when in July 1969, the most Ven. Sum- Baatar, Mongolia 1982; 7th Vientiane, anatissa of Sri Lanka and the most Ven. Laos 1986; 8th Ulan Baatar, Mongolia M. Wipulasara, India and Ven. Amir- 1990; 9th Ulan Baatar Mongolia 1998; tananda, Nepal visited Ulan Baatar at the 10th Vientiane, Laos 2003 and 11th Ulan invitation of Most Ven. Khambo lama Baatar, Mongolia 2019. Gombojav. In the course of their meet- His Holiness the Dalai Lama participat- ing, they agreed to establish an Inter- ed in the 3rd General Assembly in 1974 national Buddhist Organization in Ulan and became a member of ABCP and Baatar. since then the Department of Religion Subsequently, on 13th June 1970, anoth- and Culture has represented His Holi- er meeting was held in Ulan Baatar. The ness the Dalai Lama and Central Tibetan meeting was attended by many Dignitar- Administration.

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His Holiness the Dalai Lama ushers religious harmony amongst Muslim communities at ‘Celebrating Diversity in the Muslim World’ Conference

Another way to understand the presence of Muslims in the Tibetan civilisation as Mr. Wahid noted is through the study of the map where it shows the frontiers of Tibet are ringed by Muslim areas includ- ing the complex mountains surrounding Xinjiang’s Uyghur, Kazakistan, Uzbeki- stan and other Turkish speaking Muslim areas. “It is, therefore, reasonable to assume that Tibetan culture would interact with the Muslim world,” said Mr. Siddiq Wa- hid. His Holiness the Dalai Lama while ad- dressing the gathering spoke on the three principle commitments of his life. His Holiness imparted some notable expla- The Muslims of Ladakh took the initia- a Shina Muslim clerk and scholar from nation on the basic human values and tive to organise the first ever national Lucknow, Maulana Mahmood Madani stated that all human beings by the very level Muslims conference titled ‘Cel- executive member, and leader of the nature of creation want to survive and ebrating Diversity in the Muslim World” JamiatUlama-i-Hind, Ali Khan Mehm- to survive happiness is the key factor. at the India International Centre (IIC) in udabad an assistant professor at Ashoka The basis of a happy life as His Holi- New Delhi. Representatives and lead- University, Farah Naqvi who served as ness from time and again emphasised is ers of various Muslims communities a member of National Advisory Coun- human compassion as men being social in India took part in robust discussions cil of NAC, Seema Mustafa who is one animals cannot survive individually, is and dialogue to identify and address the of India’s senior journalists and Chief interdependent on the rest of the world. differences of Muslim communities in Editor of The Citizen, and Mehmood “Compassionate atmosphere means the India. The goal is to recognise and pro- ur-Rashid who is the opinion editor of person lives happier and vice versa” mote intra-community unity and inter- Kashmir’s largest daily Greater Kasmir. claimed His Holiness the Dalai Lama community harmony amongst the Mus- Mr. Siddiq Wahid, a senior fellow at the while asking people to denounce anger lims in South Asia. Centre for Policy Research in New Delhi and fear as it only eats away the immune The initiative heavily draws its inspira- who is also a former Vice Chancellor of system. tion and motivation from His Holiness Islamic University, Kashmir presented Being kind as His Holiness noted has the Dalai Lama who from time imme- an introductory remark on the confer- nothing to do with religion but rather an morial has been a staunch believer in the ence. act of sharing human values with the oth- potential of the Muslim communities in Speaking on how and why a minuscule ers. India and across the world in bringing population such as Ladakh has taken His Holiness testified that Muslims are reconciliation of differences caused in upon itself the initiative to organise ‘Cel- generally peace-loving people which the name of Shia and Sunni. ebrating Diversity in Muslim World’, His Holiness said he witnessed from the His Holiness the Dalai Lama presided Mr. Wahid pointed out some facts that Muslims in Tibet. However, the unfor- over the conference as the Chief Guest depict Tibet’s ancient ties with the Mus- tunate reality today His Holiness men- while other prominent figures at the con- lim world such as the variance of Tibetan tioned is the gross killings in the name of ference were special guest former Vice langue being spoken and its culture be- Shia and Sunni as it is happening in Af- President of India Mr. Hamid Ansari, ing adopted in no less than 4 of the 7 ghanistan, Syria, and Yemen, etc. Such Hafiz Gulam Mohammad and former SARD countries including Nepal and incidents are unthinkable and go against Kalon Tripa Samdhong Rinpoche. India. In India, the variance of the lan- the concept of basic human nature. His Also present at the event were key guage is used in Jammu and Kashmir, Holiness thus urged for efforts in usher- speakers, Abdul Qadir Moiz Noorud- Sikkim, West Bengal, etc. Similarly, In ing a peaceful word through channeliz- din who is one an executive trustee on Pakistan, the variance of the Tibetan lan- ing inner peace. the Board of the Saifee Burhani Uplift- guage is spoken in Baltistan and in Bhu- “Simply chanting slogans of the peaceful ment Trust, Maulana Kalbe Jawad Naqvi tan’s Dzongkhag. world won’t help unless the peace comes 18 TIBETAN BULLETIN MAY - JUNE 2019 FEATURE from within” advised His Holiness. After Rare Visit to Tibet, US Envoy Urges China Talking on religious harmony, His Ho- liness set India as the prime example to Resume Dialogue with His Holiness the Dalai of the possible existence of religious harmony as multiple religions co-exist Lama peacefully in India. His Holiness then asked the participants The US ambassador to of the conference to show the world in China urged Beijing to general but particularly the Muslims engage in substantive around the world that conflict in the dialogue with His Ho- name of religion is unnecessary and liness the Dalai Lama vain. or his representatives Former Vice President of India Hamid without preconditions Ansari in his address commended the to seek a settlement small but a significant step taken by the that resolves differ- Muslims in Ladakh. ences, the US embassy reportedly said. Mr. Ansari accounted that Muslims are united in their belief and their language US Ambassador to China Terry Branstad of religion and this is best demonstrated US embassy. at the time of pilgrimage to Hutch and was hosted by Bei- Mecca. jing for a rare weeklong visit to the Ti- “The three concerns raised by Ambas- bet Autonomous Region (TAR) and the sador Branstad from his recent visit to He also described how Islam has been in Qinghai province, originally the Tibetan Tibet are reasonable and valid concerns India from time immemorial depicting province of Amdo last week, from 19 to that reflect the truth of the situation in- the adaptability, creativity, and diver- 25 May. side Tibet. Instead of dismissing these sity while claiming they could become a grave concerns as “foreign interference”, model to emulate in other multi-cultural What was a desperate attempt by China to project a favourable image of its six China should show responsibility and and multi-religious societies around the address the violations of human rights, world. decades of draconian rule over Tibet, and to showcase “earth-shaking changes religious freedom and lack of access to Later, a Q&A session was held between in the people’s production and life since Tibet,” Secretary Tsewang Gyalpo Arya, His Holiness and the participants where Tibet’s peaceful liberation more than 60 Department of Information said, in his His Holiness answered questions relat- years ago” which the Chinese foreign comments to Tibet.net. ing to spirituality, philosophies and eth- ministry hoped Amb. Branstad to wit- “Until the grave human rights abuses in ics, etc followed by the addresses by the ness, the visit shed a more urgent light Tibet are addressed, the Chinese gov- key speakers of the conference. on China’s constant assault on Tibetan ernment’s claim to be the rightful rul- ‘Celebrating Diversity in the Muslim Buddhist civilisation and restricted ac- ing government of Tibet remains ille- world’ is a pilot initiative taken by the cess to Tibet. gitimate. I urge the Chinese leadership to Muslims of Ladakh and is the first ever Post the visit to TAR and Amdo, Ambas- engage in the dialogue with His Holiness nationwide held conference on Mus- sador Branstad not only urged China to the Dalai Lama and his envoys at the lims. The conference is an effort to build engage in dialogue with His Holiness soonest and find a lasting solution to the awareness about the shared culture of the Dalai Lama, but he also criticised the Tibet issue.” Muslims around the world, to create in- Chinese government’s interference in Amb. Branstad’s trip to Tibet is the first tra-community unity and inter-commu- Tibetan Buddhists’ freedom to practice to the region by an American envoy in nity harmony amongst them. The con- their religion and raised “long-standing four years. ference is solely sponsored and funded concerns about the lack of consistent The visit comes on heels of 32 US mem- by the Office of His Holiness the Dalai access to the Tibetan Autonomous Re- Lama. bers of Congress urging President Trump gion.” to implement key legislation including Ambassador Terry Branstad expressed the 2018 Reciprocal Access to Tibet concerns regarding the Chinese govern- Act, that calls for ban on access for Chi- ment’s interference in Tibetan Buddhists’ nese government officials responsible freedom to organise and practise their for restricting access for US journalists, religion” and “also raised long-standing diplomats, tourists, and citizens, includ- concerns about the lack of consistent ac- ing Tibetan Americans to Tibet; and the cess to the Tibetan Autonomous Region, Tibet Policy Act of 2002 that urges the said the official statement issued by the cont’d.. on Page 18

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“There is certainly no doubt that I would live for over hundred years” : His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Tenshug, Dharamshala

recounted on the recent health issue which had caused widespread concerns among his followers and well-wishers who no sooner had they learned about His Holiness’ health complication sent prayers and good wishes. His Holiness, therefore, thanked them once again. Acquainting the gathering on the power of sincere prayer, His Holiness affirmed that the prayers offered for his long life and the blessings endowed on him are indeed sincere and therefore it is likely that those prayers will prove their ben- efits. Speaking at the long life prayers co- organised by CTA and Tibetan people across the world, His Holiness admit- ted having done a considerable amount of service not only for the Tibetan cause Tibetans across the globe led by CTA Thousands have gathered at the ceremo- and people but for the welfare of human- once again expressed their unwavering nial event including representatives of ity at large through his recurrent teach- faith and prayers for His Holiness the Tibet’s religious traditions namely Sakya ings and talk on human love and com- Dalai Lama’s long life and good health Trizin Rinpoche, Gaden Tri Rinpoche, passion. by offering Tenshug (life long prayers) Shartse Choje Rinpoche, Jhangtse Cho- His Holiness then narrated one of the at Tsuglagkhang, the main temple. je Rinpoche, Tai Situ Rinpoche, Pon- auspicious dreams he dreamt where he This marks the second Tenshug offering lop Rinpoche, Rigo Tulku Rinpoche. encountered Palden Lhamo, the protec- of CTA, the first one offered during His Likewise, Kalons of CTA departments, tor of Lhamo-Lha-Tso (oracle lake in Ti- Holiness’ teachings in Bodh Gaya in De- Secretaries and Joint Secretaries of the bet) who further predicted that His Holi- cember last year. departments and CTA officials also par- ness would live for 110 years. ticipated in Tenshug ceremony. Apart “Even now when I am 84 years old, I am from Tibetans, many foreign visitors wit- cont’d.. from Page 17 still very much healthy so I think there is nessed the grand ceremony of prayers. certainly no doubt that I would live for president of the United States to encour- Artists from TIPA performed opera 110 years. I only need to relax and have a age dialogue between Beijing and rep- dances while singing a serenade of wel- quality time now” affirmed His Holiness resentatives of His Holiness the Dalai come to His Holiness the Dalai Lama the Dalai Lama. Lama to resolve the Tibetan issue. filling the courtyard with an echo of faith This particular affirmation declared by China’s six-decade rule in Tibet has and conviction. His Holness the Dalai Lama is indeed been defined by systematic annihilation Accompanying His Holiness the Dalai the long-standing collective aspirations of the cultural heritage of Tibet with the Lama to his seat at the main temple were of six million Tibetans and their hap- destruction of Tibetan Buddhism and CTA President Dr. Lobsang Sangay, piness knew no bounds on hearing the religious traditions, language, cultural Chief Justice Commissioner Kargyu good news. practices and traditional way of life, so- Dhondup and Speaker Pema Jungney. The Tenshug offering is also being ob- cial marginalization, second-class citi- Expressing his earnest gratitude to the served for the pacification of all obsta- zenship in their own land, exploitation participants and organisers for the elabo- cles of this 84th year of His Holiness’ of the poor and of the environment and rate tenshug offering, His Holiness the life, and for the fulfillment of his benev- discriminatory policies undermining the Dalai Lama once again reaffirmed to live olent wishes. Tibetan language. 153 Tibetans have re- more than 100 years to serve humanity sorted to self-immolation in a desperate and especially for the benefit of Tibetan call for human rights and political re- people and the cause. form in Tibet and the return of His Holi- ness the Dalai Lama to Tibet. Addressing the gathering, His Holiness

20 TIBETAN BULLETIN MAY - JUNE 2019 FEATURE

His Holiness the Dalai Lama Congratulates Prime Minister Modi culture. The traditions of Nalanda Uni- versity brought to Tibet in the eighth century have had a powerful impact on our development. One highly regarded Tibetan master in the 14th century paid tribute to this when he said, “Until the light (knowledge) was brought from In- dia, Tibet, even as the Land of Snows, remained in the dark.” “Last month marked the 60th anniver- sary of our life in exile. I would like to take this opportunity to express the Ti- betan people’s immense gratitude to the Government and people of India. It is His Holiness the Dalai Lama congratu- tion of the oneness of humanity and en- due to India’s consistent generosity and lated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and couraging inter-religious harmony, I am kindness to us that we have been able to the National Democratic Alliance on committed to reviving interest in the an- preserve our ancient cultural heritage in their sweeping victory in the Lok Sabha cient Indian understanding of the work- exile. general elections. His Holiness remarked ings of the mind and emotions. I believe In conclusion, His Holiness wrote: “I with “admiration and pride” that India India is the only country that can suc- pray you will be successful in meeting as the world’s largest democracy was cessfully combine this ancient knowl- the challenges that lie ahead in fulfilling emerging a leader in the community of edge with modern education and ensure the hopes and aspirations of the people nations. that people know how to achieve lasting of India.” “India is one of the great ancient civiliza- peace of mind. The positive response I have encountered, especially among The striking result of the 17th Lok Sabha tions, a distinctive and fundamental fea- election has set PM Modi on course to ture of which has been ahimsa and karu- young Indians, in exploring such possi- bilities I regard as a sign of hope. become the first Prime Minister after Pt. na — non-violent conduct motivated by Jawahar Lal Nehru and Indira Gandhi to compassion,” His Holiness continued. “We Tibetans have tremendous respect win a second consecutive five-year term “In addition to promoting an apprecia- for India as the source of our spiritual with a full majority. CTA President Congratulates PM Modi and India on ‘Conducting World’s Biggest Democratic Event’

India and its 130 crore citizens for suc- cessfully conducting the world’s biggest democratic event ever seen. He added that the young Tibetan demo- cratic system in exile whose present leadership were born and educated in India took great pride in the fact that the Tibetan democratic system was set up in this great nation of India. “For six decades, India has been a sec- ond home and a gracious host to His Ho- liness the Great Fourteenth Dalai Lama and the Tibetans. No country has done more for Tibetans than India and its gen- The democratically elected leader of the Alliance on its successful win in the Lok erous people. To express our gratitude Tibetan people, President Dr Lobsang Sabha elections. to the Indian government and its people, Sangay today extended heartiest con- In a letter addressed to the Prime Min- the year 2018 under the leadership of gratulations to Prime Minister Shri Nar- ister, President Dr Sangay congratulated endra Modi and the National Democratic cont’d.. on Page 22

MAY - JUNE 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 21 FEATURE

His Holiness the Dalai Lama Graces the First Non-Sectarian Buddhist Conference on Kalachakra Tantra

Making his first public appearance after his return from Delhi, His Holiness the Dalai Lama graced the first Non-sectar- ian Buddhist Conference on Kalachakra Tantra at Tsuglagkhang on 5 May 2019. Organised by the Namgyal Monastery Educational Developmental Committee, the conference was inaugurated on the day to coincide with the 6th centenary of Master Je Tsongkhapa’s death anni- versary. Kalachakra belongs to the class of High- est Yoga Tantra and is believed to be given by Shakyamuni Buddha to the Dharma King of Shambhala, Suchandra. The Lineage was later passed to India and then to Tibet where it has been pre- served until the present day. Particularly, the lineage of Kalachakra initiation is preserved only in the Tibet- various Buddhist traditions including ing. This is how to uproot the causes of an Buddhist tradition and is bestowed Professor Samdhong Rinpoche and doz- suffering. He taught that the more you by highly realised Tibetan Buddhist en others participated. exercise reason, the more you’ll under- masters including the Dalai Lamas. His “I regularly say how important it is for us stand and the deeper your conviction Holiness the 7th Dalai Lama Kalsang to be 21st century Buddhists. In the past will be. This is what Nagarjuna did and Gyatso composed an extensive Sadhana in Tibet, people of all three provinces consequently what he wrote attracts the and instigated the Kalachakra practice in were Buddhist. Even the Bönpos studied admiration of scientists today.” Namgyal Monastery. Buddhist texts. Buddhism spread right According to the Nalanda Tradition, The ceremonial commencement was across the land and people placed great even the words of the Buddha are subject marked with an offering of Mandala, faith in rituals and prayers. But what are to analysis, His Holiness noted. chanting of verses in praise of the Bud- the true characteristics of the Buddha’s “The Buddha himself counselled, ‘As dha, the Three Principal Aspects of the teachings?” the wise test gold by burning, cutting and Path and the Praise to the 17 Masters of His Holiness the Dalai Lama expounded rubbing it, so, Bhikshus, should you ac- Nalanda and keynote address by His Ho- on the 2500-year-old Buddhist study of cept my words—only after testing them liness. the inner sciences conducted however and not merely out of respect.'” Distinguished Buddhist scholars from in the framework of religion and its un- His Holiness recalled that Master Je matched compatibility with the cutting- Tsongkhapa also encouraged it, saying cont’d.. from Page 21 edge modern science and focus on the that if the Lama teaches something that transformation of mind. is at variance with the classical texts, one the Central Tibetan Administration was Narrating examples of the Indian prac- should challenge it. observed as the Thank you Year with a tice of concentration and insight or series of Thank You India events held all “When I give someone a statue of the analysis (shamatha and vipashyana), His over India.” Buddha I describe him [Buddha] as a Holiness explained how the Buddhist thinker and scientist of ancient India, He added, “I hope that the bond shared practice was based on reason, experi- someone whose teaching can be under- between India and Tibet will continue to ence and critical analysis. And that it did stood through reason, investigation and remain strong and India will continue to not presuppose any blind acceptance of experiment—and by setting it against support the just cause of Tibet.” authority. our own experience.” “Once again, I congratulate and wish “All religious traditions teach about love “Here in exile, I encouraged nuns to you great success and prosperity of this and compassion from different point of study and to seek the highest qualifica- great nation under your able and dynam- view, but the Buddha taught us to use tion, which prompted some surprise ic leadership.” reason and to think about dependent aris- among older monks in the monaster-

22 TIBETAN BULLETIN MAY - JUNE 2019 FEATURE ies in the South. However, I reminded them that the Buddha offered full or- His Holiness the Dalai Lama Bestows Avalok- dination equally to monks and nuns, so why should they not also study to iteshvara Empowerment on Holy Sagadawa the same level? Consequently, we now have Geshé-mas and even lay people are showing an interest in study. While Tibetan Bud- dhists worldwide Discussing the Kalachakra tantra, His observe the holy Holiness wondered if “Shambhala” the Buddhist festivity, place believed to be the origin of the lin- Sagadawa with the eage existed and where? most vibrant displays “As far as the Kalachakra is concerned, of devotions and re- one question that has to be asked is ligious activities, it where is Shambhala? It seems it may not is most likely that Ti- be in this world, but we have to read the betans inside China- texts carefully.” occupied Tibet will He warned against blind faith and said once again face severe comes from the lineage of the Bhikshuni Buddhist teachings will survive for cen- restrictions—if not Laxmi, a female practitioner. I received turies to serve humanity only if we can unprecedented—against observing any the transmission of this initiation from explain it in terms of the ground reality. kind of devotional activities in personal or public space. Tadrak Rinpoche, and my senior tutor “Whereas some people claim that build- Sagadawa is the most sacred month of Ling Rinpoche and on that basis, done ing temples and monasteries amount to the year in Tibetan Buddhist tradition, recitation of the six syllable mantra, Om building the Dharma, Vasubandhu was commemorating the birth, enlighten- Mani Padme Hum,” His Holiness said. straightforward in stating that the sur- ment, and parinirvana and noble activi- Representatives of various Tibetan tradi- vival of the Buddha’s teaching depends ties of the Buddha. tions were present at the initiation includ- on study and practice.” Last year China imposed a series of mea- ing Professor Samdong Rinpoche, Ling “It is one thing to study the scriptural sures prohibiting Tibetan families and Rinpoche, Rizong Rinpoche and high la- teaching, but it has to be augmented by schoolchildren from participating in the mas and monastics of Dzongkar Choede realization within yourself. That’s the Sagadawa festival.The birthday of His Monastery. only way to ensure the teaching will sur- Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tibetan New His Holiness explained that Chenrezig vive—keep up what you’re doing and Year, Monlam Chenmo Festival and Jowo Wati Sangpo, also referred as Ky- explain this to others.” Sagadawa are some of the many restrict- irong Jowo, is one special guardian deity Further on Kalachakra, His Holiness ed and heavily curtailed dates in Tibet. of Tibet with whom he felt a special con- said he monks of Jonang Monastery and For Tibetan Buddhists, the month in- nection. the followers of Butön Rinpoché were spires the highest expressions of devotion “It was in a series of visions that the Fifth the main upholders of the tradition. With to one’s spiritual teacher and Buddhist Dalai Lama had of this deity that he is regard to the Six Branch Practice of Ka- practice. Buddhist adherents engage in said to have received teachings and trans- lachakra, the Jonangpas still maintain rigorous study of Buddhist texts, con- missions relating to the ‘Secret Visions’.” the practices for day and night and gain templations and receive many teachings the signs in relation to them. from revered lamas. The main statue of the deity is one from Kyirong, a place close to the Nepalese The Secretary of Namgyal Monastery, Here in Dharamshala, the seat of His Ho- border in Tibet. the Abbot of Namgyal Monastery and liness the Dalai Lama and Central Tibet- Chairman of the Namgyal Monastery an Administration, the Tibetan Buddhists The Dzongkar Choede Monastery in Education Society Thomtog Rinpoche gathered in thousands to receive teaching Tibet had safeguarded the statue for and Principal of the Namgyal Monastery and spiritual empowerments from His many generations. In 1959, the monks School Ven Thupten Yarphel introduced Holiness. of Dzongkar Choede brought the statue the conference and delivered remarks. safely into India. It has remained in His At the request of Dzongkar Choede Mon- Holiness’ phodrang ever since. Over the course of the conference, repre- astery, His Holiness the Dalai Lama gave sentatives of various Buddhist traditions the Avalokiteshvara empowerment in a including Nyingma, Sakya and Geluk, three-hour long elaborate ceremony. The the Bokar Kagyus, Jonangpas, a Geshe statue of Jowo Wati Sangpo, the sacred from Zhalu Monastery and representa- image of Avalokiteshvara from Kyirong tive of the Astro Department of the Men- was displayed at His Holiness’ left. TseeKhang will make presentations. “This empowerment of Avalokiteshvara

MAY - JUNE 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 23 WORLD PRESS

Sakya Gongma Trichen’s Remarks to Tibetans in New York and New Jersey

Sakya Gongma Trichen Rinpoche who commendable initia- was inaugurating the Phuntsok Deshe tive and exhorted the Community Centre of New York and diaspora community New Jersey Tibetans made an impas- to continue to vigor- sioned plea for Tibetans to rise above re- ously imbibe the lan- gionalism and collectively endeavour in guage in daily inter- the greater interest of Tibet. actions. The former supreme head of the Sakya He said parents, in Buddhist tradition said the unity of the particular, must make six million Tibetans is paramount to the sure to converse with success of the Tibetan political struggle. your children in Ti- Alongside Rinpoche, CTA President betan. Rinpoche also Dr Lobsang Sangay also addressed the warned against giv- event. ing in to the western culture and way of Tibetan language and Buddhist culture; Some 2000 Tibetans from across North life. America attended the inauguration of the and the ethical revolution that we as new community centre in New York. Instead of bickering over trivial matters- guardians of this tradition would bring to which Rinpoche described was not only the world. Deeming the significance of Tibetan lan- useless on a personal level but also fatal Rinpoche ended his remarks with a rev- guage in preserving Tibetan identity and to the greater cause of Tibet-he asked its Buddhist heritage, Rinpoche noted erence-filled tribute to His Holiness the them to revisit the teachings of His Ho- 14th Dalai Lama. the weekend language classes led by liness the Dalai Lama in which he per- Tibetan volunteers in North America as sistently emphasised the potential of Google defeats shareholders on ‘Dragonfly’ censored search in China

By Zack Whittaker

A shareholder resolution aimed at halting during the meeting, would have instructed past year for targeting Uighur Muslims Google’s efforts to bring a censored Google to conduct and publish a human and holding more than a million in version of its search engine to China has rights impact assessment examining the detention. failed. impacts of a censored Google search engine in China. Google opposes the resolution, saying Shareholders tabled a resolution to in its proxy statement: “Google has demand Google put the brakes on its It’s not immediately known what was the been open about its desire to increase its controversial search engine efforts in breakdown of the vote. ability to serve users in China and other China. The program, internally dubbed countries. We have considered a variety “Dragonfly,” is said to be a censorship- “The Chinese government already of options for how to offer services in friendly search engine with the capability employs invasive, data-driven China in a way that is consistent with our to hide results at the behest of Beijing, surveillance to track its citizens,” mission and have gradually expanded which administers one of the most said Joshua Brockwell, an investment our offerings to consumers in China, restrictive internets in the world. communications director at Azzad including Google Translate.” Asset Management, which supports The project remains largely secret, amid the resolution. “The potential for it to Open Mic, a nonprofit representing an internal upheaval and political pressure weaponize data from Google searches shareholders worth $3 billion in Google from the Trump administration over the could allow the government to expand assets, brought the resolution. project, but was later acknowledged by its human rights abuses, including mass Google chief Sundar Pichai, describing detentions of the Uighur minority.” Capital Research & Management China as an “important” market. Company, the shareholder in the top 10 Among recent crackdowns, China has with the least amount of shares, still has The resolution, which failed to pass come under international pressure in the $3.9 billion in stock.

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China, Pakistan, Saudi Worst for Human Rights; Mostly Muslims at the Receiving End – US Reports

By EurAsian Times

The Annual Report on Religious was acquitted on appeal in 2018 and hardly been able to garner the same Freedom, released this year has turned allowed to leave for Canada. positive momentum that was initially quite a few heads at the increasing Pompeo also criticised the Chinese found to be the case. Sam Brownback, atrocities towards minorities across government for its strong and violent Ambassador at-Large for International the globe especially in China, Pakistan persecution of the Muslim Uighurs in Religious Freedom, is of the view that and Saudi Arabia. The US Secretary of Xinjiang province. As an ethnic minority, the ascend of the Crown Prince has been State, Mike Pompeo had a few scathing the Uighurs, have been reportedly kept rather disappointing. statements regarding the state of affairs in “conditions similar to internment “I think there was a lot of hope at first on global religious freedom. The camps”. The Human Rights Watch in the change of leadership that things findings along with the statements made suggests that the Uighur community is would open up substantially. They by Pompeo been a cause of many foreign being subjected to intense surveillance continue to be one of the worst actors states going on the offensive and calling and media are almost completely banned in the world on religious persecution. the report ‘biased’ and ‘incendiary’ in from the area. We need to see actions take place in a nature. Allegedly anyone found to contact abroad positive direction,” he told reporters. The report is an overview of the large- is being targeted and systematically In April, which was after the timeframe of scale atrocities addressed across punished. The State Department added the 2018 report, Saudi Arabia conducted 28 nations. It talks about the many that the abuses of religious freedom in a mass execution of 37 people, most of governments and non-government actors China and especially in the Xinjiang them Shiites. The charges of execution targeting religious minorities. According province is unbelievable. ranged from alleged involvement in to the report, religious freedom “In China, the government’s intense terrorist activities, espionage and protest- continues to deteriorate across the related offences. globe. The most violent crimes included persecution of many faiths – Falun Gong genocide, religious marginalisation, practitioners, Christians, and Tibetan Humans Rights Watch (HRW) suggested forced displacement, rape, enslavement Buddhists among them – is the norm,” that one of the Saudi Shias was crucified and other such activities that curtail Pompeo said. The statement alluding after being beheaded, while the UN rights humanity. to the systematic oppression of the chief said at least three of those executed Falun Gong spiritual movement over were minors when charged. Among the One of the major topics of heated the feigned idea that the movement is 37 people charged, 33 of them were Shia, discussion was upon the stringent supposedly ‘superstitious in nature and a which makes the act premeditated. blasphemy laws that impinge the foreign-driven menace to society’. freedom of religious expression in Michael Paige, deputy Middle East Pakistan. The Secretary of State Mike The Chinese government has reportedly Director at HRW, suggests that the Pompeo, speaking at the release of the persecuted almost 3000 documented Saudis are falsely claiming that the report, estimated that there are more practitioners. The other instances detainees had extremist tendencies and than 40 people who are presently serving of persecution of Tibetan Buddhists that there is an utter lack of due process life sentences or facing execution for and Christians have long been Party in their conviction and execution. The blasphemy in Pakistan. Headquarters agenda. All these cases ‘criminals’ were solely condemned were specifically mentioned in the report on the basis of confessions that were Aasiya Bibi, a Pakistani-Christian, was about China. credibly found to be coerced. convicted of blasphemy in 2010 and sentenced to death. Bibi was found guilty A rather interesting development in this The various inputs within the report for insinuating curses at the Islamic report is the criticism of Saudi Arabia. make for an interesting insight into the faith. The law of land for blasphemy in The Trump administration has often impending danger of incited violence Pakistan includes life imprisonment and/ shied away from bad-mouthing Saudi from various actors that has seemingly or death. Arabia owing to its bountiful vested trade led to a pandemic. During the press interests. The detainment of more than release of the report, Mike Pompeo There were many threats to her family thousand Shias for non-violent offences announced that the United States and many Islamic clerics had openly put has been something that has been would host the first-ever “Ministerial to up a bounty for her death. Among those touched upon in the report, portraying Advance Religious Freedom”. in support of her acquittal were harassed discrimination on their part. and physically harmed or even killed. This Ministerial would bring together Despite public protests against her, Bibi The rise of Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, governments, religious community Mohammed Bin Salman Al Saud, has leaders, NGOs which focus on religious MAY - JUNE 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 25 WORLD PRESS freedom and protection watch. This globally” according to Ambassador Sam promoting religious freedom in foreign is being done to “drive the issue of Brownback. This is an important and policy discourse. religious freedom more aggressively possibly an effective development in

To restore calm in Hong Kong, try democracy

By The Economists

It was probably the largest political breaking demonstration, Mrs. Lam now. During the “Umbrella Movement” protest ever staged in Hong Kong. It announced that the bill would be shelved of 2014, when protesters staged weeks of may have been the biggest in China’s indefinitely. However, that did not ease sit-ins to press for free and fair elections history. Organisers reckon that about concerns. At a news conference on June to the post of chief executive, China’s 1.9m people joined the demonstration 18th, she apologized for her handling leaders dug in their heels. They made it on June 16th. Even during the unrest in of the bill but gave no indication that plain that the “universal suffrage” Hong Tiananmen Square three decades ago, no she would resign, as the protesters are Kong had been promised would mean single protest approached that scale. demanding. only the chance to vote for someone the The estimate may not be reliable. But This crisis has vividly shown how party likes. That is why Hong Kongers there is no disputing the impact of this disillusioned Hong Kongers have are without illusion today. They see display of discontent, and others leading become. It was different in 2003 when Mrs. Lam, who took over in 2017, as up to it. It came only a week after another hundreds of thousands of people took to the party’s stooge—as they will see her demonstration of jaw-dropping size and the streets in protest against a proposed successor, too. Without democracy or four days after one that escalated into anti-sedition law. Then the Communist a credible promise of it, no leaders in Hong Kong’s most violent disorder since Party had reason to hope that it could the territory will be seen as legitimate, the 1960s. The territory’s government defuse the problem by allowing Hong severely limiting their ability to govern. and its overlords in Beijing could not Kong to shelve the bill, and encouraging China’s leader, Xi Jinping, therefore have received a clearer message that the unpopular chief executive, Tung has a stark choice. He can keep Hong Hong Kongers distrust their own leaders, Chee-hwa, to resign (he did so in 2005). Kong’s political system as it is and carry as well as the central government’s. Even At the time, many people in Hong on trying to stifle the freedoms that Hong if Hong Kong’s chief executive, Carrie Kong still thought that the party would Kongers otherwise enjoy. The result Lam, were to step down, the trust would eventually fulfill its pledge to give them would be more protests and probably still not be restored. more democracy. In the meantime, more violence. Businesspeople would The unrest was triggered by a proposed they could grudgingly put up with the become more jittery, and Hong Kong’s law that would allow the extradition appointment system, which ensured that reputation as a safe base from which to of criminal suspects from Hong Kong Mr. Tung’s successor was loyal to the trade with the mainland would be at risk. (where the rule of law still more or less government in Beijing. For his first few Or Mr. Xi can offer Hong Kong hope prevails) to the Chinese mainland (where months in office the new man, Donald again, by setting out a timetable for real those who displease the ruling party have Tsang, enjoyed strong public support. democratic reform. “We have to have little chance of a fair trial). The law would Some pro-democracy politicians even the confidence that Hong Kong people also let Hong Kong’s courts seize assets felt hopeful. can manage Hong Kong well,” goes a connected with crimes on the mainland. Their optimism faded as the party’s mantra of China’s leaders. It is time to Less than a day before the latest record- intentions became clearer. None remains let its people try.

Human Rights Organisation Calls on Congress to Investigate Genocide in China

By MAY HAWKINS, Epoch Times

WASHINGTON—A leading human harvesting of prisoners of conscience in call for a congressional investigation. rights organization is calling on Con- China has to be addressed. A genocide is The issue of organ harvesting in China gress to investigate whether the forced not an internal affair of a single country, has gained prominence following the fi- organ harvesting practiced in China con- but a global affair of humankind,” Dr. nal judgment issued on June 17 by the stitutes genocide. Torsten Trey, executive director of Doc- China Tribunal, an independent people’s “The systematic, large-scale forced organ tors Against Forced Organ Harvesting tribunal to inquire about forced organ (DAFOH), said in explaining the group’s

26 TIBETAN BULLETIN MAY - JUNE 2019 WORLD PRESS harvesting from prisoners of conscience eradicate—a word used in internal Party “The campaign to label Falun Gong as a in China. The tribunal was formed in documents—the practice of Falun Gong. ‘cult’ has become part of the cold geno- London to address a gap in the ongoing Falun Gong, also known as Falun Dafa, cide, as it tries to conceal the eradication investigations into organ harvesting in is a spiritual discipline based on the of the group,” he said. China. principles of truthfulness, compassion, “The Tribunal established that elements “Parliamentary hearings in several coun- and tolerance. It includes a set of moral of genocide against Falun Gong have oc- tries have heard evidence on the issue, teachings and slow-moving, meditative curred. But it could not conclude wheth- and some have passed legislation in re- exercises. er there was intent, which is an important sponse,” the tribunal’s website states. The Party’s then-paramount leader, Jiang component to define genocide.” “To date however, there has been no Zemin, feared that Falun Gong’s tradi- Trey said the legal discussion on the investigation into to what if any crimes tional moral principles might prove more term “intent” has evolved over the past have been committed by such forced or- appealing to the Chinese people than the 70 years, but in any case, the facts show gan harvesting by the Chinese State or Party’s atheistic and materialistic dogma. the Chinese regime’s intent to commit a state-approved bodies.” Western news outlets in early 1999 quot- slow-motion genocide. The tribunal found that the killing of ed regime officials as saying there were He laid out the evidence: detainees in China for their organs has 100 million Falun Gong practitioners— “The Chinese Communist Party created continued since it was first revealed by more than the number of CCP members. witnesses from China in 2006. the 610 Office, a Gestapo-like secret po- The campaign Jiang unleashed has used lice force with extra-legal power for the The tribunal’s findings recognize that propaganda, dismissal from jobs and purpose only of persecuting Falun Gong. elements of genocide are “clearly estab- schools, loss of housing, confiscation of lished” in the practice of organ harvest- “Every day for over two decades, the property, detention, brainwashing, and state-controlled media reports fabricated, ing in China and explicitly invites further torture to try to force people in China to investigation concerning genocide. negative news about Falun Gong. And in give up Falun Gong. 2001, a self-immolation hoax was set “DAFOH echoes the Tribunal’s call for Minghui.org, which serves as a clearing- up on Tiananmen Square to manipulate further investigations and urges Con- house for information about the persecu- public opinion against Falun Gong. gress to launch formal proceedings to de- tion of Falun Gong, has confirmed the termine the extent of the practice and the “All these factors would not happen deaths of 4,316 Falun Gong practitio- without intent. The intent in a cold, slow- degree to which it constitutes genocide,” ners due to torture and abuse. The actual reads a DAFOH news release. moving genocide can be more subtle than number is believed to be far higher, due the intent in a visible, hot genocide.” Trey urged both Congress and the Trump to the difficulty of getting information administration to act immediately to help out of China. Trey said the reason the tribunal didn’t take into consideration that the intent in stop the continuous crimes taking place In addition, large numbers of Falun Gong in China. the cold genocide against Falun Gong practitioners have been killed through might be more subtle. He was concerned “Congress could bring the forced organ forced organ harvesting. The 2016 in- that the tribunal’s position on intent harvesting in China to its end if it would vestigative report “Bloody Harvest/The “might play right into the hands of the be determined to do so,” Trey said. Slaughter: an Update” is “a meticulous perpetrators,” while grateful that it did He also urged President Trump to raise examination of the transplant programs not deny genocide may have occurred the issue of forced organ harvesting to of hundreds of hospitals in China,” ac- and called for further investigations. cording to its website. Chinese leader Xi Jinping when they Trey called for a statement by Speaker of meet during the G-20 summit on June The report concluded that, since 2000, the House Nancy Pelosi, who has been 29. Chinese hospitals have been conduct- a leader in opposing the CCP’s human “Who would seek a trade deal with a per- ing between 60,000 and 100,000 organ rights violations. transplants each year, with Falun Gong petrator of a genocide? Wouldn’t such “We are talking about crimes against a trade deal also be used to cover up a practitioners being the primary source for the organs. humanity that have lasted for over 20 genocide? The ethical foundation of such years!” he said. a trade deal would be missing,” he said. One characteristic of a cold genocide is that the eradication of the targeted “The judgment is out in the public. It cre- Trey said the tribunal’s report coincides ated a historical record. Given the sever- with findings by members of DAFOH, group occurs in a slow-moving manner, said Trey. The Chinese regime has used ity and urgency of the matter, one cannot which describes the organ harvesting claim anymore that one does not know. campaign by the Chinese communist re- hate propaganda to mislead the Chinese people and the international community, Each action or non-action will, from now gime as a “cold genocide” against Falun on, also become part of the historical re- Gong practitioners in China. preventing unbiased investigations of the genocide carried out against practi- cord.” The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) tioners. Trey gave as an example how, more than launched a campaign in July 1999 to

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75 years ago, President Franklin D. Roo- of forced organ harvesting in China. “We doctors to become even better transplant sevelt and then Supreme Court Justice need to know what happened. We need surgeons, who then sustain transplant Felix Frankfurter learned of the killings to find out if a genocide occurred, and abuse in China? of Jews by the Nazis in concentration to what degree Americans are indirectly “Do perpetrators of genocide enter the camps, yet they took no action to stop involved or unknowingly benefit from United States as tourists or attendees of it. “The inaction became a historical re- these crimes against humanity.” medical conferences? cord,” he said. He suggested that investigations might “Do American patients travel to China A statement by the speaker would like- consider the following questions: to receive a transplant, not knowing that wise be part of the historical record, he “Do American companies sell medical their medical request possibly initiates said. products or pharmaceutical drugs to Chi- the killing of a prisoner of conscience?” Trey urged Congress to initiate investiga- na and sustain transplant abuse? tions and hearings regarding the crimes “Do American universities train Chinese

China’s Tiananmen reckoning

Brahma Chellaney, Australian Strategic Policy Institute

The 30th anniversary of the Tianan- blame President Xi. I blame all of our celebrate its 70th birthday. men Square massacre of at least 10,000 presidents, and not just President Obama. But the anniversary of the 1989 people is significant for several reasons. You go back a long way. You look at Tiananmen crackdown is the most For one thing, the deadly assault on stu- President Clinton, Bush—everybody; portentous for the CCP’s continued dent-led demonstrators remains a dark they allowed this to happen, they created monopoly on power. The massacre was and hidden chapter in China’s commu- a monster.’ carried out because the party has relied on nist narrative. For another, the Chinese Yet, after a long post-massacre boom, brute force since its inception, including government’s arbitrary exercise of pow- China—the world’s largest, strongest, when it seized power. During the rule of er against its own citizens not only has wealthiest and most technologically the PRC’s founder, Mao Zedong, tens of continued since the massacre, but has advanced autocracy—is entering a millions died in the so-called Great Leap become more methodical, sophisticated period of uncertainty just as it prepares to Forward, the Cultural Revolution and and efficient, with the country’s internal- celebrate a record 70 years of communist other state-engineered disasters. security budget now officially surpass- rule. (The longest-lasting autocratic ing its mammoth defence spending. Yet, Adolf Hitler was responsible for an system in the modern era, the Soviet estimated 11–12 million civilian deaths, at the same time, this reliance on brute Union, survived 69 years.) force carries an ominous message for the and Joseph Stalin for at least six million. Chinese Communist Party. China’s many anniversaries in 2019 are But Mao, with some 42.5 million, was making this a politically sensitive year. the undisputed champion butcher of the In a night of carnage on 3–4 June 1989, The Tiananmen Square protests in 1989 20th century. And his blood-soaked rule the Chinese authorities crushed the were inspired by the watershed 4 May influenced his successor, Deng Xiaoping, pro-democracy protests with tanks and 1919 student demonstrations against who ordered the savage assault on the machine guns. In Eastern Europe, the Western colonialism at the same site. But Tiananmen demonstrators. democratisation push led to the fall of whereas President Xi Jinping recently the Berlin Wall just five months later, The CCP’s survival in power reflects not extolled the May Fourth Movement in only its willingness to deploy massive heralding the end of the Cold War. But a speech marking the centenary of that the West recoiled from sustaining its violence, but also its skill at distorting event, he and the CCP are edgy about the reality with propaganda and snuffing out post-Tiananmen sanctions against China, Tiananmen anniversary. thereby paving the way for the country’s dissent. But how long can the world’s dramatic rise. This year also marks the 60th oldest autocracy continue to sustain anniversary of a failed uprising in Tibet itself? By dispensing with collective The West not only glossed over the against Chinese occupation. And it is leadership and orderly succession, Xi has massacre, but also ignored China’s 10 years since a Uyghur revolt killed already undermined the institutionalism subsequent excesses and unfair trade hundreds in the Xinjiang region, where that made post-Mao China resilient to the practices. US President Donald Trump more than one million Muslims have forces of change that helped to unravel recently lamented how the United States now been incarcerated as part of a Xi- the Soviet empire. had aided China’s rise and spawned a initiated effort to ‘cleanse’ their minds of ‘monster’: ‘They took advantage of us Until Xi’s lurch to despotism, it seemed extremist thoughts. Then, on 1 October, that history was by and large going for many, many years. And I blame us, I the People’s Republic of China will don’t blame them’, Trump said. ‘I don’t China’s way. Its economy was booming,

28 TIBETAN BULLETIN MAY - JUNE 2019 WORLD PRESS its control of the South China Sea was steadily expanding, and its Belt and Road The 17-point Agreement – What China promised, Initiative of transnational infrastructure what it really delivered and the future? projects was progressing smoothly. But China is now facing strong international headwinds at a time when its economy by Tsewang Gyalpo Arya* has noticeably slowed. BRI partner countries are increasingly concerned about becoming ensnared in sovereignty- eroding debt traps. China’s influence operations in democratic countries—and the Trojan horse of Confucius Institutes at foreign universities—are now meeting increased resistance. And, more fundamentally, the paradigm shift in US policy towards China under Trump is altering the geopolitical landscape for Xi’s government. Meanwhile, China’s growing economic risks—such as rising local government debt, higher US trade tariffs, and Western pushback against its technological expansion and trade and investment practices—are compounding the CCP’s concerns about social unrest. By prompting some multinational 23 May 2019 marks the 68th anniversary the Tibetan government, and they left corporations to move production from of the controversial 17-point agreement when their missions were accomplished. China to Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia between Tibet and China. It is expected China cannot claim Tibet because of and elsewhere, Trump’s tariffs are that China will once again come out with these historical skirmish incidents. If further intensifying the party’s anxiety. a gaudy statement to brag the unification they did, others can also do the same, of Tibet with the motherland. Let us for that matter, even Tibet can claim As a result, China’s triumphalism has review some facts about the agreement China as a part of Tibet2. These skirmish ceased and Xi has warned that the and urge China to look at the agreement incidents are natural and in conformity country faces major new risks at home more to resolve the Tibet issue rather with the political history of almost all the and abroad that could escalate and than celebrate it as a victory. nations around the world. ignite turbulence. The CCP fears that it could meet the same fate as its Soviet The 17-point Agreement is a very Communist China has tried to claim counterpart, especially if it fails to important valid historical document Tibet as a part of China under various prevent small incidents from spiralling which reveals the real nature of insubstantial grounds. But like most into major defiance of its authority. This Sino-Tibetan relations at that crucial of its concocted propaganda, the explains Xi’s emphasis on enforcing turning point of the Tibetan history of nature of the claims kept changing. strict Leninist discipline. Yet Xi himself independence. Although forced upon First, they claimed Tibet as a part of is undermining the CCP by building the Tibetan government by communist China since the 7th century Tibetan a cult of personality around his one- China, it remains as an important emperor SrongtsanGampo [Tib: man rule and by inviting international testimony to the fact that Tibet was never Srongbtsansgampo], when the Tang pushback through his overemphasis on a part of China before the agreement. Princess Wencheng Kungchu became China’s strength and power. one of the queens of Tibet. Later, the The anniversary of the Tiananmen From the historical perspective, it is very Chinese White Paper3claimed that they Square massacre is a reminder that important to assert here that Tibet has inherited Tibet from the Mongolian the free ride China has enjoyed never been a part of China anywhere in its Yuan Dynasty in the 14th century, and internationally over the past 30 years is pre-1949 history1. Yes, the Mongolian, later from Ming and Qing Dynasties. ending. It should also serve as a warning Nepalese, Chinese and British army did But these fictitious and deceptive claims to the CCP that its continued reliance on enter Tibet and exercised suzerainty intended to distort history were refuted brute power to keep China’s citizens in over Tibet at a certain period of Tibetan strongly even by the Chinese scholars4. line could eventually leave it on the ash history. But they came as foreign heap of history. entities, as invaders or at the request of The fact is that even after the sixty-

MAY - JUNE 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 29 WORLD PRESS years of occupation of Tibet, China has The 17-point agreement although signed 2008 should be studied in this context. not been able to fully win or defeat the under duress, it gave China the much- To what extent the Memorandum has Tibetans. When all the historical claims needed excuse to get into Tibet. When deviated from the three-core Chinese and propaganda failed to justify their His Holiness the Dalai Lama refuted it approach. More importantly, it should occupation of Tibet, China, now has on April 1959 at Tezpur in India9, the be studied whether the Memorandum started to harp on “Liberation of Tibet International community came to know is within the purview of the Chinese from feudal serfdom” and bringing the truth about the agreement and China constitution or not, if not to what extent development in the region. lost the legitimacy to occupy Tibet. it has digressed. These are the common So, from the point of International law, grounds on which Tibet and China need Many believe that the 17-point China’s occupation of Tibet is illegal10. to discuss and negotiate to arrive at a agreement with China was the end of As a rising super-power and as an mutually acceptable agreement. Tibetan independence. No, in fact, the important member of the United Nations, 17-point agreement is an important China needs to redress this historical Much to the chagrin of the communist document to prove that Tibet has been faux pas to gain moral and international China, the 17-point agreement of 1951 an independent nation. The agreement legitimacy to its claim on Tibet. Through still remains an important document is also a testimony to the fact that intimidation and brutal occupation, to prove that Tibet was an independent China agreed for “one country, two China has achieved all the points nation before the Chinese invasion. system” formula for Tibet. The nature mentioned in the 17-points agreement. However, as the Tibetans are not seeking and the outcome of the agreement also If China is serious of resolving the Tibet separation from China now, the document reveal the real imperialistic colour of issue, it sincerely needs to brood over can play a crucial role in finding a Chinese communism. Although the those points which it agreed to give to common ground based on the Middle agreement was signed under duress, Tibet but never did, they are: Way Approach of His Holiness the Dalai His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Lama and the Tibetan Administration in Tibetan government tried their best to The 3rd point of the agreement: “The exile. The three-core approaches of Tibet accommodate the Chinese demand. Tibetan people have the rights to exercise and China could be the Zone of Possible When China got confident that the land national regional autonomy under the Agreement (ZOPA), where solution was fully under the control of its People unified leadership of the Central People’s to the Tibet issue could be found. A Liberation Army (PLA), they began to Government.” strong will and sincere effort from the violate the agreement. This is how China Chinese leadership to brood over the under the communist regime works. The 4th point: “The central authorities ZOPA sphere would be more mutually Hong Kong and Taiwan should learn will not alter the existing political system beneficial rather than harping on the from this Tibetan experience and be in Tibet. The central authorities also will immoral victory it contrived through the wary of Chinese overtures5. not alter the established status, functions 17-point agreement. and powers of the Dalai Lama. Officials China first proposed and later imposed of various ranks shall hold office as 23rd May should be a day for the Chinese the contents of the 17-point agreement usual.” leadership to look back and see what on the Tibetans. Tibetans refuted the it promised to the Tibetans and what it agreement at first and later tried to The 7th point: “The religious beliefs, really delivered, and how it still could accommodate it, but when China violated customs and habits of the Tibetan people help find a common ground to resolve the agreement which they themselves shall be respected, and lama monasteries the Tibet issue. imposed, Tibetans revolted and refuted it shall be protected..” again. But China is celebrating it, herein *T.G. Arya is the Information Secretary The 11th point: “The local government lies the irony of the agreement! at the Department of Information & of Tibet should carry out reforms of its International Relations (DIIR) of Central Now, in order to resolve the Sino-Tibetan own accord, and demands for reforms Tibetan Administration (CTA). The view issue, His Holiness the Dalai Lama and raised by the people shall be settled by expressed does not necessarily reflect the the Tibetan Administration in exile have means of consultation with the leading Administration’s stance. proposed solutions in the form of Five personnel of Tibet.” point peace plan in 1987, Strasbourg How harsh the other 13 points may be, proposal in 1988, and the Memorandum China forcefully implemented it. But on Genuine Autonomy in 2008. These these 4 points which China has promised three proposals can be seen as the three- Tibet are still not fulfilled, rather China core Tibetan approach to resolve the has violated it. Tibet issue. It shares many common elements with the 17-point agreement6, The Memorandum on Genuine Premier Deng Xiaoping’s statement7 Autonomy for the Tibetan people and the Chinese constitution8, the three- submitted to the Chinese leadership in core Chinese approach.

30 TIBETAN BULLETIN MAY - JUNE 2019 Tibetan Media Sheja (Official Tibetan monthly) NewsTibet Department of Information & International 241 E. 32nd Street Relations, Dharamshala-176215, HP, India New York, NY 10016 Email: [email protected] Web: www.tibetoffice.org Web: www.bod.asia Tibet Bulletin (Official Chinese bi-monthly) Tibetan Freedom (Official Tibetan weekly) Department of Information & International Department of Information & International Relations, Dharamshala-176 215, HP, India Relations, Dharamshala-176215, HP, India Email: [email protected] tibetan Email: [email protected] Web: www.xizang-zhiye.org Web: www.bod.asia www.tibetonline.tv BulletiN

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QUOTES

“In today’s world, despite material development, many problems we face are of our own cre- ation. They are provoked by our tendency to see others in terms of ‘us’ and ‘them’. Children don’t make such distinctions. They don’t care what religion, race or nation their playmates belong to so long as they smile and play happily. We need to remember the oneness of hu- manity, that in being human we are all the same, and I am committed to letting people know this,” His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Conference of Celebrating Diversity in Muslim World.

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“India is one of the world’s great civilizations, in which the conduct of ahimsa motivated by karuna play a crucial part. I am committed to trying to revive interest in ancient Indian understanding of the mind and emotions. I believe this is the only country that could suc- cessfully pioneer a combination of this ancient knowledge with modern education. In our monasteries in South India we have 10,000 monks and 1000 nuns trained and qualified to teach about this,” His Holiness the Dalai Lama at a meeting with Business Leaders and Professionals from India, Vietnam and Russia

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“Despite China’s brutal and systematic attempt to wipe out Buddhism in Tibet, it however didn’t succeed and Buddhism is now being preserved very well by Tibetans in exile and in the Himalayan region under the guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. In fact, China is now the largest Buddhist country with over 300 million following the faith,” President Dr Lob- sang Sangay at the inauguration of 50 feet statue of Buddha in Aurangabad, Maharashtra.

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Much to the chagrin of the communist China, the 17-point agreement of 1951 still remains an important document to prove that Tibet was an independent nation before the Chinese inva- sion. However, as the Tibetans are not seeking separation from China now, the document can play a crucial role in finding a common ground based on the Middle Way Approach of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Administration in exile. The three-core approaches of Tibet and China could be the Zone of Possible Agreement (ZOPA), where solution to the Tibet issue could be found,” Secretary Tsewang Gyalpo Arya, DIIR, CTA.

Edited by Tenzin Saldon Printed and Published by the Secretary, Department of Information & International Relations, Central Tibetan Administration, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala - 176215, H.P, INDIA Printed at Narthang Press, Gangchen Kyishong, Dharamsala - 176215, H.P, INDIA