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TIBETAN BulletiN The Official Journal of the Central Tibetan Administration

Volume 23 - Issue 1 JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 Focus

Media Reporting Conditions in Worst in 2018: Foreign Correspondents’ Club of China

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Feature

Women can bring compassion into positions of power says His Holiness the Dalai

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World Press

Why China isn’t ready to invade Taiwan – yet

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

Focus TIBETAN 16 Media Reporting Conditions in China Worst in 2018: Foreign Correspondents’ Club of China BulletiN Tibetan Bulletin is an official bi-monthly journal of the Central Tibetan Administration. Feature

18 His Holiness the meets student delegation from the US and Israel

19 I am a student of ancient Indian knowledge and Indian , says His Holiness the Dalai Lama Signed articles or quotations do not necessarily reflect the views of the Central 20 Women can bring compassion into positions of power says Tibetan Administration. His Holiness the Dalai Lama Contributions are welcome and may be 21 Exile has been a blessing for , religion and identity addressed to the editor, Tibetan Bulletin. to thrive: His Holiness the Dalai Lama on However the publisher regrets its inability to return unused articles unless they are 23 CTA’s Department of Education offers long life prayers to accompanied by a self-addressed envelope His Holiness the Dalai Lama with adequate postage. Tibetan Bulletin is distributed free of charge. To subscribe please email the circulation manager or see back cover. World Press Editor Tenzin Saldon 26 Authorities Use Welfare Payments Against Tibetan Buddhists Email: [email protected]

By Reported by Zaili Asst. Editor Tenzin Phende 27 Why China isn’t ready to invade Taiwan – yet Layout & Design By Josh K. Elliott, International Global News Tenzin Phende

30 China closes Tibet to foreigners for sensitive anniversaries Circulation Manager Norbu Wangdue Email: [email protected] By Christopher Bodeen Washington Post Tibetan Bulletin is published by:

Department of Information and International Relations, Central Tibetan Administration, - 176 215 H.P. Tel: +91-1892-222510 / 222457

Vol. 23 Issue 1 Regulars January-February 2019 News From Tibet & Exile ...... 4 Contact ...... 31 Quotes ...... 32 His Holiness the Dalai Lama wishes everyone on -Year of Earth 2146

Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama, on one day ahead of of Losar, greeted Tibetans in Tibet and those in exile on the occasion of Losar, the Tibetan . Speaking from his residence in Dharamshala where he was meeting a group of elderly Tibetans aged over 90, His Holiness the Dalai Lama offered Losar message on the occasion of Tibetan new year 2146, beginning 5 February.

“I wanted to wish Losar Tashi Delek (Tibetan greeting on New Year) mainly to Tibetans inside Tibet and then, those in exile. The six to seven million are considered to be the followers of Chenresig, the Avalokiteshvara and in true essence, our people have upheld the tradition and of Tibet.”

“Despite facing through a challenging period, we have successfully drawn admiration and recognition for the unique culture and religion of Tibet. This is chiefly due to the valour, courage and indomitable spirit demonstrated by Tibetans inside Tibet and the unity observed by all the Tibetans worldwide.”

“Hence I wish to thank you all for preserving the unity of the three traditional provinces of Tibet.”

Assuring that the “Tibetan cause will never die”, His Holiness the Dalai Lama said, “The Tibetan cause is based on truth and truth will never die, it will only become stronger and clearer in time.”

www.mwa.tibet.net NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE Travel restrictions discourage Tibetans from applying. CTA President China has been adopting a two-track on Tibetans persist passport policy at the detriment of Congratulates US Tibetans. The Human Rights Watch despite International had exposed the existence of such House Speaker Nancy outcry against China discriminatory passport system way back Pelosi in 2015 where Tibetans are subjected to The President of Central Tibetan His Holiness the slow-track passport system. In the guise Administration (CTA) Dr Lobsang concluded teachings at , of issuing new epassports, the passports Sangay congratulated Nancy Pelosi Bihar, the place where of Tibetans were confiscated and were for being elected as the Speaker of the attained enlightenment. Attending the then subjected to arduous application House of Representative for the second annual teachings and prayers conferred process making it almost impossible to time. First elected in 2007, Nancy Pelosi by His Holiness has almost become an get a new passport. remains the only woman to ever serve intrinsic part of an individual Tibetan’s for this role. She is currently in her annual religious sojourn. Tibetans all In August last year a group of UN 17th term as a Member of the House over the world try to attend the same. Experts expressed “serious concern of Representatives, following her first over the policies and legislation of the election in 1987. two-track passport system specifically targeting and discriminating against In his message, Dr Sangay expressed his members of the Tibetan minority” and admiration and applauded Nancy Pelosi sought information from the Chinese for being a fearless leader. “I, on behalf Government on this. The UN Committee of the Central Tibetan Administration on Elimination of Racial Discrimination heartily congratulate you on being in its report released in the same month elected Speaker of the House for after reviewing China, highlighted the second time. Your election is a the “almost banning of issuance of reflection of your leadership, integrity passports to Tibetans for foreign travel” His Holiness the Dalai Lama conferring long- and the sharp relevance of your voice life empowerment based on White at and recommended China to “revise as a champion of American ideals,” said ground in Bodh Gaya, Bihar on 30 regulations revise its regulations and President Dr Sangay. December 2018.Photo/Tenzin Phende/CTA practices to ensure non-discriminatory determinations on passport applications “Your political and moral leadership and But this has become perilous to Tibetans and freedom of movement for Tibetans commitment towards issues including in Tibet under Chinese occupation. within and beyond TAR and abroad.” human rights at home and abroad is a Even during the third cycle of Universal legacy and inspiration to all of us. “ At the recently concluded teachings, Periodic Review of China by the Human barely 100 Tibetans from Tibet were Rights Council the Member States “Your victory is the victory of people in able to attend as reported by mainstream called on China to cease restrictions on Tibet and people around the world who Tibetan media. This is mainly due to the Tibetans’ freedom of movement. are denied their basic human rights.” severe restrictions on passport imposed by the Chinese authorities. In January, “Despite the international pressure, Speaker Pelosi is a staunch supporter of 2017, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama China continues to restrict Tibetans’ the Tibet cause and a fierce advocate of conferred the Kalachakra teachings and movement, especially of their foreign peace and non-violence. many Tibetans from Tibet had travelled travel. The denial of issuance and to Bodh Gaya to receive the initiations. reissuance of passports for Tibetans In a statement delivered on the 59th However, China threatened them of has curtailed them from undertaking anniversary of the Tibetan Uprising dire consequences if they attended the pilgrimage to holy Buddhist sites and Day, Pelosi said, “If we do not speak prayers. Upon return their passports attend the teachings of His Holiness the out for human rights in Tibet because were confiscated and never returned. Dalai Lama. While China continues to of economic concerns, then we lose all Similarly, in January last year, Chinese brazenly disregard international norms moral authority to talk about human authorities issued public order banning and UN recommendations, it becomes rights in any other place in the world.” Tibetans from Tibet from attending the incumbent on UN member states to She led a congressional delegation to teachings and ordered them to return to further engage with China and ensure Tibet in 2015 and to Dharamsala twice Tibet immediately. Upon return, their that they uphold their commitments,” with the last visit in 2017. passports were confiscated and torn. said Thinley Chukki, of UN and Human Rights Desk of Department For detailed news visit: When Tibetans in Tibet apply for of information and International passports, they are subjected to Relations (DIIR), of Central Tibetan www.tibet.net discriminatory practices targeted to Administration.

4 TIBETAN BULLETIN JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE His Holiness the Dalai CTA President welcomes the enactment of Asia Lama Congratulates Reassurance Initiative Act (ARIA) US Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Re-election

His Holiness the Dalai Lama congratulated Honourable Nancy Pelosi on her re-election as the Speaker of the US Congress. His Holiness the Dalai Lama reiterated his belief that the United States is the leading nation of the free world and his confidence that in her role as the Speaker, she would help to lead during these difficult times.

His Holiness also thanked Speaker Pelosi for her personal friendship and CTA President hails the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act. for her loyal and unwavering support in President Dr Lobsang Sangay of abuses against the Tibetan people,” said the past decades to the just cause of the Central Tibetan Administration hailed Senators Cory Gardner (R-Colo.) and Tibetan people. the enactment of the Asia Reassurance Ed Markey (D-Mass.), the lead sponsors Initiative Act (ARIA) , saying that the of the Act. passage is a much-welcomed move. US President Donald Trump signed the Matteo Mecacci, president of the ARIA Act into law on 31 December International Campaign for Tibet said: 2018, having passed the Senate and “This Act rightly places the issue of the House on 4 and 12 December Tibet within the parameters of US respectively. security interests. Tibet occupies an Asian fault zone of clashing cultures and President Dr Sangay thanked the big-power politics.” His Holiness the Dalai Lama greeting his friend US Congress for passing the Asia then House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi as Reassurance Initiative Act, which The Act, known as ARIA, aims at she arrives at his residence leading a bipartisan references Tibet in terms of supporting enhancing American leadership in the US Congressional Delegation on a visit to the Ti- “activities preserving cultural traditions Indo-Pacific region and strengthening betan community in Dharamsala HP, India on May 9, 2017. Photo by Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL and promoting sustainable development, cooperation with regional partners, education, and environmental including India and Taiwan. It says, conservation in Tibetan communities “The United States has a fundamental “Your friendship, support and solidarity in the Tibet Autonomous Region and interest in defending human rights and during this most difficult period in in other Tibetan communities in China, promoting the rule of law in the Indo- Tibet’s long history have been a source India, and .” Pacific region.” of hope, inspiration and strength in our enduring and challenging quest for CTA President, in recent years, has Following is the reference to Tibet in justice and freedom.” made multiple visits to the United the Act. States and held high-level meetings “Consequently, notwithstanding the in the Senate as well as the House of SEC. 409. AUTHORIZATION OF uncertainty and upheaval we are Representatives. During those meetings, APPROPRIATIONS. presently witnessing in different parts he has relentlessly tabled the issue of of the world, including the continuing prioritising Tibet at the core of US (a) Promotion of Democracy in the plight of my compatriots in Tibet, I policy. The Office of Tibet in Washington Indo-Pacific Region.– remain hopeful and optimistic that DC has also made tremendous efforts (1) In general.–There is authorized to ultimately truth, justice and human towards this. be appropriated $210,000,000, for each reasoning and decency will prevail.” of the fiscal years 2019 through 2023, “ARIA ensures that the US will continue to promote democracy, strengthen For detailed news visit: to support Tibet by authorizing funds civil society, human rights, rule of www.tibet.net for Tibet-related programs and by law, transparency, and accountability highlighting Chinese human rights in the Indo- Pacific region, including

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 5 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE for universities, civil society, and Gangjong Finance Kalon Yeshi, Department of multilateral institutions that are Finance remarked that the program focusing on education awareness, Granted License by boasted a 100 percent on-time training, and capacity building. repayment rate in the first two years of RBI, SARD Rolls out 12 its implementation i.e. 2017 and 2018. (2) Democracy in china.–Amounts Crore Loan for Tibetan appropriated pursuant to paragraph “In 2017, the Livelihood program (1) shall be made available for United Summer Businesses benefited more than 913 Tibetan winter States Government efforts, led by The Social and Resource Development sweater sellers, of which 42% were the Assistant Secretary of State for Fund (SARD), Department of Finance owned by women. The loan amount Democracy, Human Rights, and rolled out a new Summer Livelihood was repaid 100% by February/March Labor, to promote democracy, the Support Programme for 2019, under of 2018.” He acknowledged the support rule of law, and human rights in the which CTA will provide loans worth a and cooperation of Tibetan settlement People’s Republic of China. total of Rs 12 Crores (120 Million) at officers, local assemblies, regional a minimal 3% interest rate to support sweater sellers associations in the (3) Tibet.–Amounts appropriated Tibetan Summer businesses across smooth return. pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be India. made available for nongovernmental Kalon hoped this year too the amounts organizations to support activities will be repaid fully and on time. preserving cultural traditions and “This will not only help us expand the promoting sustainable development, livelihood support program in future but education, and environmental will earn the trust and admiration of our conservation in Tibetan communities funders.” in the Tibet Autonomous Region and in other Tibetan communities in A recent survey undertaken by SARD China, India, and Nepal. revealed there are over 35 well- President Dr Lobsang Sangay addressing the established summer retail markets all The Act also recognises India as a press conference on the launch of new Summer over India with 1594 shops. Based on Livelihood Support Programme for the year 2019 major Defence partner, the vital role of by SARD, Department of Finance, CTA at the selection criteria, SARD selected the strategic partnership between the Secretariat hall. Photo/Passang Dhondup/CTA 13 markets for the inaugural Summer United States and India in promoting Livelihood Support Programme. peace and security in the Indo-Pacific President Dr Lobsang Sangay unveiled Approximately 600 Tibetans are going region. Section 204 of the Act calls the loan product at a press conference to benefit from this programme. for strengthening and broadening of held at the Kashag Secretariat. He also diplomatic, economic, and security ties formally announced that the Gangjong Dr Kunchok Tsundue, the Chief between the two countries. Development Finance Private Limited, Planning Officer of the Central Tibetan also called Gangjong Finance, was now Administration briefly introduced the The Indo-Pacific is a biogeographic a legitimate Non-banking Financial SLSP program and the legal registration region, comprising the Indian Ocean and Institution registered with the Reserve of Gangjong Finance with RBI. the western and central Pacific Ocean, Bank of India (RBI). including the South China Sea. This year’s Summer Livelihood Support Finance Kalon Karma Yeshi, Chief Programme will benefit over 600 Planning Officer Dr Kunchok Tsundue, Tibetan beneficiaries operating in 13 CEO Ram Mohan Rao, Finance Tibetan Summer retail markets across Secretary Yeshi Wangmo and Chief India. The program will be implemented Resilience Officer Kaydor Aukartsang from February this year, providing attended the press conference. loan packages of Rs 2 lakhs to each beneficiary. President Dr Lobsang Sangay said www.mwa.tibet.net the Livelihood support program is “The summer Livelihood Support primarily aimed at Tibetans based in program is to support the community India and envisions to strengthen the self members whose major business activity reliance and sustainability of Tibetan is in summer season. The size and For detailed news visit: community in exile by helping them number of the summer businesses are www.tibet.net thrive economically, help sustain and smaller than the winter sweater Sellers, grow viable businesses through its low- but the summer business segment is interest loan services. more organised,” said SARD.

6 TIBETAN BULLETIN JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE Speaking on the legal registration of Tibetans Sentenced In central Tibet or the “Tibet Autonomous Gangjong Finance, CEO Ram Mohan Region,” protests against the Communist Rao said the firm has mapped an in Central Tibet in government’s policies erupted despite ambitious plan for the subsequent years. rigid monitoring and constant watch “Now that we have secured the license, 2018 for “Inciting by the security personnel. In April last we are a legitimate financial institution Separatism” year, the TAR authorities manhandled in India. This is only the first step. and detained over 30 Tibetan villagers In 2018, China has sentenced 25 Slowly with building a track record for in Driru county, Nagchu prefecture for Tibetans in the central Tibet, the so- the institution and with sufficient capital, opposing mining of the sacred mountain called Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) we may try for a banking license. When Sebtra Dzagen. Prior to this event, under charges of “inciting separatism” it becomes a bank, it will be an exclusive Karma, the village head of Markor and endangering “national security,” bank for Tibetans. That is our dream but was detained when he refused to give reported the state mouthpiece Global this was our first step.” his approval to the mining project. Times. The TAR high court presented Despite repeated attempts, due to the information in its work report last Rice Mill in Bhandara total clampdown on phones and other weekend. Tibetan Settlement communication devices, Karma and the Tibetan villagers’ well-being and current launches its flagship condition remain unknown till date.

product – Tibet The concern is that the actual number Premium Rice of Tibetans sentenced in the past year The Tibet Rice Mill of Bhandara Tibetan would definitely be higher than the Settlement, Maharashtra launched its Chinese authorities’ claims. flagship product, the Tibet Premium Rice at a press conference. Tibetans Forced to File Image/Photo credit:savetibet.org Prostrate to Xi Jinping Speaking at the press conference were Announcing his work report to the Chief Planning Commissioner of Central regional Party Congress, TAR Chairman Pictures: Religious Tibetan Administration Dr Kunchok Che Dalha (Chinese: Dalha) said, Repression in Tibet Tsundue, Additional Secretary of “Tibet has firmly curbed and cracked Department of Home Karma Choeying, down on secession, infiltration and Accelerates President of the Bhandara Cooperatives sabotage activities by hostile forces It’s just the beginning of 2019 and the Society Phuntsok Tashi and Secretary at home and abroad,” referring to His year is already bespeaking the Chinese Tenzin Phende. Holiness the Dalai Lama and Tibetans government’s ever-intensifying grip on and supports outside Tibet. In February Tibet and its repressive policies against “The Co-operative Society of Norgyaling 2018, the public security bureau of the Tibetan people. This year marks the Tibetan Settlement has set up a rice mill TAR issued a circular listing “22 illegal 60th anniversary of the Tibetan National with funding support primarily from activities,” three of which directly Uprising of 1959, which forced His The Dalai Lama Trust and the Central mentioned the “Dalai clique” and Holiness the Dalai Lama and thousands Tibetan Relief Committee. It was “hostile foreign forces”. of Tibetans to escape into exile. And inaugurated by Kalon Sonam Topgyal China seems to be accelerating the curb Khorlatsang of the Department of Home Like these 25, Tibetans calling for on religious expression and activities, as on 7 September 2018,” said CTA’s chief freedom in Tibet and expressing recent reports from Tibet reveal. planning commissioner, Dr Kunchok reverence to His Holiness the Dalai Tsundue. Lama have often been punished for As confirmed by our source, Tibetans in “inciting separatism,” a criminal charge Serta County, incorporated into China’s He said the Tibet Rice Mill project is loosely defined and more so broadly province, are forced to remove aimed at generating additional income misused against Tibetan dissents. portraits of His Holiness the Dalai Lama for Tibetan local farmers and establish from their altars. They are compelled sustainable and self-reliant Tibetan One example is the well-known case of to display pictures of Chinese leaders, cooperatives. Tashi Wangchuk, the Tibetan language including Xi Jinping, and to prostrate rights advocate who expressed his and make offerings instead. As told by the members of Cooperatives, opinion about the Tibetan people’s right in Tibetan is a traditional the products have been transported in to their language, for which he was practice, a religious gesture of reverence bulk for promotional testing here in sentenced to five years on the charges of reserved to the Buddha, the and Dharamshala and will be showcased to “inciting separatism” by a court the . the donor organisations. last May.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 7 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE Arrested for of Choekyi and “urged the Chinese Government to allow his relatives and Celebrating HH the lawyers of his choice to visit him and, in particular, to provide him with the Dalai Lama’s adequate medical care.” Birthday, Tibetan As per our source, Choekyi reached Monk Released Due his home at Shosang Village, Nyitod to Critical Health Township, Serta County on 18 January Tibetans ordered to prostrate to pictures of Chinese 2019 at around 9 pm local time. The President/Image obtained from VOA Condition Chinese authorities threatened his family “Tibetans prostrate only to the three of dire consequences if they informed Choekyi, a Tibetan monk from Phugu Jewels of ,” noted anybody beyond his immediate family , Serta (Ch: Seda) from DIIR Secretary Sonam Norbu Dagpo, about his release in order to prevent any Sichuan Province arrested in 2015 for the official spokesperson of the kind of public gathering. The authorities celebrating His Holiness Dalai Lama’s Central Tibetan Administration. “The allowed only his family members to pick 80th birthday was released due to his Communist Party of China “claims” him up and prohibited other Tibetans critical health condition, as per our to be an atheist government and China from receiving him from prison. an atheist country. Compelling the source. Tibetans in Tibet to prostrate to pictures “Since his arrival, his house is under of Chinese leaders including that of Xi constant surveillance. Few security Jinping is not only inappropriate but officials can be seen holding cameras to such intervention going against the take pictures of the people visiting him,” Tibetan culture and Buddhist tradition is reported our source. unacceptable,” he said. China has often denounced His Holiness Earlier the week, Chinese authorities in the Dalai Lama as “separatist” and TAR even made proposals of building possession of His picture is considered statues officials deployed in Tibet, under Choekyi, a Tibetan monk from Phugu Monastery, Serta, Sichuan Province was released from a crime let alone celebrating His “cultural development”. Chinese prison due to his critical health condition. birthday. The Human Rights Watch in Photo/VOT its recent World Report 2019 has noted Other reports earlier in the month that Chinese authorities encouraged the Choekyi was detained by the Chinese likewise indicated the Chinese “people to denounce members of their Security officials on June 19, 2015 as government’s continuation of repression communities on the slightest suspicion he shopped with his father wearing a and further deterioration of the situation of sympathy for the exiled Dalai Lama t-shirt which had a message in Tibetan of human rights in Tibet. Last week, UN or opposition to the government” as “kue-gya-ton-su”, roughly translated and Human Rights desk at DIIR reported part of China’s nationwide anti-crime as, “Celebrating (His Holiness Dalai on local Chinese authorities issuing of campaign. orders banning Tibetan students and Lama’s) Eightieth Birthday”. He civil servants from engaging in any was charged with inciting “separatist kind of religious activities. The orders activities” and was initially held in prison Japan’s National were supplemented with threat of dire in Kangding County in Kardze (Ch: Broadcaster NHK consequences if not abided by. Ganzi) Prefecture before transferring him to Sichuan’s Mianyang prison to interviews CTA serve 4 years sentence. President on Tibet Before his detention, Choekyi was Issue suffering from kidney ailment and other health-related issues. The torture in In a rare interview with Japan’s national detention and the hard labour in prison broadcaster NHK, CTA president Dr. made his condition much worse. There Lobsang Sangay called on the Chinese has been wide international call for his government to resume dialogue with the www.mwa.tibet.net immediate release and medical attention. envoys of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and listen to the cries of Tibetans inside The European Parliament had adopted Tibet. For detailed news visit: a resolution on 18 January 2018 inter www.tibet.net alia calling the Chinese authorities for The interview was broadcast that the immediate and unconditional release evening on NHK World news.

8 TIBETAN BULLETIN JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE

President Dr. Sangay is on a weeklong around the world. “The elder generation Responding to questions on Holiness the visit to Japan to raise awareness on Tibet has a very strong sense of identity and Dalai Lama’s reincarnation, Dr. Sangay issue and garner support to resolve the determination. So we are finding a way said: “His Holiness the Dalai Lama is issue of Tibet as this year marks 60 years to maintain our identity and at the same very healthy and recently he agreed under China’s occupation and situation time pursuing better education. The to live more than 100 years when we remains grim in Tibet. younger generation’s sense of identity organized a long life prayer ceremony. and solidarity with the Tibetan cause are His Holiness has said ultimately it is for Dr. Sangay said the Chinese government very strong.” the Tibetan people to decide whether the should listen to the voices and cries of next Dalai Lama should come or not. the Tibetan people. “153 Tibetans have President Dr. Sangay described the Tibetans and Buddha of compassion self-immolated calling for the return of recent Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act cannot be separated. Similarly the His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Tibet as a very significant law passed by the Dalai and the Tibetan people and basic freedom for Tibetan people. US Congress and signed by President cannot be separated too. Hence we If the Chinese government listen to their Donald Trump. “It sends a clear political appeal the Dalai Lamas to come back. voices, it will be good for the Chinese message to the Chinese government The Communist Party of China and the government and harmony in Tibet and that people who support justice, human Chinese government have no legitimacy China, which is a win-win proposition,” rights and democracy are watching and role whatsoever in the reincarnation he said. and telling the Chinese government process because of their track record. that it cannot keep on denying visas to They have destroyed 98 percent of American diplomats, students, scholars, Tibetan and nunneries, journalists to visit Tibet. It sends a clear disrobed 99.9 percent of Tibetan monks message to those Chinese officials who and nuns, they disallow practice of violate human rights in Tibet and torture religion and possession of photograph Tibetans including political prisoners, of the Dalai Lama, and criticize him that they cannot act with impunity and throughout his life.” there will be consequences.” He said he has telling countries around Dr. Sangay said the harsh clampdown on the world that what has happened to Video grab of the NHK interview broadcast on NHK World News in Tokyo, Japan, 25 Jan 2019. religious in and Tibet reflects the Chinese Tibet could happen to them as well. government’s sense of insecurity due “The people in Europe, South Africa He reiterated that Tibetans are not to growing number of people devotion and Latin America are realizing what seeking separation of Tibet from China, to religion. “At present there are more I have been telling them for the last 7 but genuine autonomy for the Tibetan religious people than communist party years with the growing influence of the people. “There is no dispute about members. The Chinese communist Chinese government’s co-opting of elite the fact that Tibet was historically party is facing an institutional threat leadership and strategies like Belt and an independent country. Repression and it feels insecurity. Hence there is Road Initiative to expand its sphere of of Tibetans should end and genuine clampdown on all kinds of religions influence in countries around the world.” autonomy should be given to the Tibetan and practitioners including Muslims, people as per the Chinese constitution.” Uighurs, Tibetan Buddhists,” he said. President Dr. Sangay will meet with the members of the All Party Japanese President Dr. Sangay said though there parliamentary Support Group for Tibet is no formal dialogue between the at the Parliament office, Tibetans and envoys of His Holiness the Dalai Lama Japanese public to speak on the current and the representatives of the Chinese situation on Tibet, the way forward to government since 2010, there are many resolve the issue of Tibet, why Tibet well-intended Chinese people, including matters for Asia and the world, and Buddhists, business people, who have leadership. been meeting informally in their private capacity with His Holiness to express This is President Dr. Lobsang Sangay’s their interest in Tibetan culture and CTA President Dr. Lobsang Sangay being fifth official visit to Japan. He first interviewed by NHK, Tokyo, Japan, 25 Jan 2019. Buddhism. visited Japan in 2012. “Since Buddhism is fundamental to Speaking on the future of the Tibetan Tibetans’ sense of culture, identity and freedom movement, the CTA president civilization, Tibetans should be allowed For detailed news visit: said the freedom movement will become to visit monasteries to pray and picture stronger because the younger generation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama,” he www.tibet.net is getting better education and exposure said.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 9 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE Countries start pushback against China threat: CTA President Meeting with Japanese, including member of parliament, philanthropists and Tibet supporters in Tokyo, CTA President Dr. Lobsang Sangay said countries around the world are increasingly pushing back against China’s influence, with leaders from Latin America to Australia are realizing what he has been saying that what has happened in Tibet could and will happen CTA President Dr. Lobsang Sangay speaking at the welcome reception in honour of his visit to Japan to them as well. organized by the Liaison Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Tokyo, Japan, on 26 January 2019. Photo/OOT Japan Braving biting cold weather in capital to fight back and challenge China by Responding to how Japanese public Tokyo, Japanese and Tibetans gather forming the largest Tibet support group can actively support the Tibetan cause to listen to message of visiting CTA in its parliament in whole Europe with during his interaction with Japanese and President Dr. Sangay. Dr. Sangay spoke 51 members. Similarly in Australia, for Tibetans, Dr. Sangay said encouraged to Tibetan community and Japanese at the first time leaders from all the political them to raise awareness on Tibet issue on the Liaison office of His Holiness. Later parties and cabinet ministers from the social media, participate in events like in the evening, he attended in welcome ruling government came to attend the the 60thanniversary of Tibetan national reception organized in honour of his Thank you Australia organized by the uprising day on March 10 and interact visit to Japan. Central Tibetan Administration. Other with Chinese students and scholars in countries like Canada followed suit,” Dr. universities in Japan. “I have been saying for the last 7 years Sangay said. that what happened to Tibet could happen He reiterated that Tibetans are seeking to you and will happen to you. Many He said mentioning Tibet in the genuine autonomy through dialogue leaders in Europe, Latin America, South Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act and with the Chinese government. Africa and Australia, have now realized Indo Pacific Reassurance Act singed how China threatens by spreading its US President Donald Trump is very He said 153 Tibetans have burned tentacles in their social, culture, political significant because of the fact that themselves in Tibet calling for the return affairs. So the narrative on China is Tibet has become official policy of the of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Tibet changing and this is an assertion on the American government. and freedom for Tibetans. “Separation part of different countries to speak for of Tibetans in Tibet and His Holiness Tibet, human rights and democracy and Praising Japan for forming the largest the Dalai Lama has been too long and Tibet Parliamentary Support Group in it is time His Holiness the Dalai Lama the whole world, President Dr. Sangay be allowed to return to Tibet. Resolution expressed hope that Japan’s voice on of Tibet issue will be success story Tibet issue will be larger. He appealed for Tibetans and Chinese. 60 years of to the Japanese government to issue a separation of Tibetans, suppression, statement to support the Middle-Way violence and cruelty under Chinese rule Approach and encourage dialogue will turn in to success of unification of between the envoys of His Holiness the same family, success of freedom and Dalai Lama and the representatives of justice, victory of non-violence and CTA President Dr. Lobsang Sangay giving a public the Chinese government. compassion.” talk to Tibetan community and Japanese public at the Liaison Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Tokyo, Japan, on 26 January 2019. President Dr. Sangay urged Japanese to President Dr. Sangay underlined that be more actively engaged in supporting the struggle of Tibet is much larger than criticism of the Chinese government. the Tibet cause, justice, freedom, human the struggle of six million Tibetans, Though the Czech Republic is a small rights and democracy and Tibetans living adding that the international community country and faces very strong pressure in Japan, urging them to reinvigorate support for the Tibetan cause will result from China’s influence in its business, efforts to strengthen the Tibetan freedom in the success of non-violence, justice, politics and universities, it has decided movement. freedom and compassion.

10 TIBETAN BULLETIN JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE His Holiness the “Although George and I are from President Dr Sangay solemnly took different religious traditions, as a part in the prayer service and rites of Dalai Lama saddened Buddhist I am confident he would be committal during which the remains reborn yet again to serve his country, in were laid to rest into the grave. by demise of ‘heroic particular, the cause of the less privileged leader and steady people.” Bihar Chief Minister Shri Nitish Kumar and a host of Indian leaders were present. friend of Tibet’ George “As I had told him during our meetings Fernandes over the years, I will always remember President Sangay was accompanied him,” His Holiness wrote, concluding by Kalon Karma Yeshi, Department His Holiness the Dalai Lama expressed his condolence remarks. of Finance, Representative Ngodup grief at the demise of former Union Dongchung, Bureau of His Holiness Defence Minister and his longtime First elected to the Lok Sabha in 1967, the Dalai Lama, New Delhi, Members friend, George Fernandes. George Fernandes was one of the top of Tibetan Parliament and Secretary leaders of the socialist movement in Tsering Dhundup along with staff from In his condolence letter to Smt Leila the 1970s. He served several tenures Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Kabir, His Holiness wrote, “I am as a Union Cabinet Minister, holding The members of Tibetan community saddened to learn of the passing away important portfolios such as defence, led by Samyeling Tibetan Settlement of my friend, Mr George Fernandes railways and communications at the Officer also attended the ceremony. after a prolonged illness. I offer my centre. George Fernandes was a senior condolences to you and your family Janata Dal leader before he founded the members at this great loss.” “Your presence Samata Party. reminds us of the CTA President pays principles, values of homage to late George our Constitution”: Fernandes Prince Buthelezi Dr Lobsang Sangay, Central Tibetan Administration paid homage to former welcomes CTA Defence Minister and a staunch Tibet President’s South His Holiness the Dalai Lama saddened by the supporter late George Fernandes who demise of ‘heroic leader and steady friend of was laid to rest with highest state Africa visit Tibet’, George Fernandes. Photo/Tibet Museum/ honours at New Delhi. South Africa’s veteran leader and CTA founder-president of the Inkatha President Sangay met with Smt. Leila Freedom Party hosted a felicitation “I had the privilege of knowing him for Kabir (wife), Sean Fernandes (son) and ceremony to welcome the visit of over five decades during which we met other family members of late George President Dr Lobsang Sangay to South regularly, and as you know, I continued Fernandes during the ceremony. He Africa. President Dr Sangay first visited to visit him after he retired from the country in February last year on active politics. I admired him greatly the invitation of the Inkatha Freedom because he dedicated himself to what Party led by His Excellency Prince he believed in, no matter how difficult Mangosuthu Buthelezi. the situation was. Mr Fernandes was a great humanitarian and believer in truth. “I am honoured to welcome Dr Throughout his life, he was a voice to Lobsang Sangay, of the Central millions of poor and needy people of Tibetan Administration, who joins us the country. He had firm conviction for together with Mr Ngodup Dorjee, the justice and . He was a real heroic President Dr Lobsang Sangay pays his last Representative of His Holiness the Dalai leader.” respects to the former defence minister George Fernandes in New Delhi, 1 February 2019. Lama in South Africa,” said MP Prince Buthelezi addressing the event held in His Holiness added, “He was a steady paid his condolence and respect to honour of the Tibetan president. friend who was sympathetic to the them on behalf of the Central Tibetan Tibetan cause right from the beginning. Administration and Tibetan people all “Your excellency represents the He never missed an opportunity to speak over expressing how late George saab aspirations of some 6 million people. It is up for the Tibetan people as well as for had always supported the cause of Tibet right that you visit us so that we can talk others in similar situation.” at different platforms. about the global struggle for democracy, freedom and peace… Your presence

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 11 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE here reminds us of the principles and Prince Buthelezi described that South 2018, banning Tibetan monasteries values of our Constitution,” he said. Africa had undergone a particularly from teaching informal language classes volatile political chapter which had during the school break. Prince Buthelezi asserted that people of thrown the country into “a state of South Africa and Tibet “share common uncertainty,” and with the elections at During the two-month school break, the values and cherish liberal democracy.” crossroads, he said, “much is at stake for local Tibetan monasteries in Nangchen He said, “Wherever we can further that South Africa”. county conduct free, informal Tibetan goal, we must do so.” classes that have grown popularity “The Inkatha Freedom Party is among Tibetan students studying in “The reality is that the international determined to be a voice of reason, Chinese schools in the past few years. community supported South Africa’s to maintain hope and to create social But this winter, Chinese authorities struggle for freedom now it must support cohesion. We are determined to save issued an “urgent notice” banning the that struggle for Tibet.” our country from a further slide into local monasteries from teaching the corruption and economic distress,” he “illegal classes” even before they could said firmly. The Inkatha Party will be convene, confirmed our source. launching its election manifesto on the 10th March this year, coinciding with In previous years, according to our the 60th anniversary of the National source, around 1000 to 1500 Tibetan Uprising Day of Tibet. students in Nangchen county used to take these free classes run by volunteer He concluded by extending greetings monks from nearby monasteries on Tibetan New Year and expressing and retired teachers to learn Tibetan His Excellency Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, his support for CTA’s Five Fifty Vision. language, poetry, etc. “These informal President of Inkatha Freedom Party hosts a “But whatever this year holds, we go into classes are not related to political issues felicitation ceremony for President Dr Lobsang it together as champions of freedom.” at all! They are purely education for the Sangay, Central Tibetan Administration, 6 February 2019. students,” remarked the source. The meeting was facilitated by Ms He urged that South Africans must know Karen Fitzgerald. Besides Nangchen, almost all other the facts and have greater access to the counties of the so-called Yushu Tibetan truth about Tibet. China Bans Hundreds Autonomous Prefecture are also imposed with similar ban on the informal “Over the past decades, the South of Tibetan Students Tibetan classes. The policy dictated by African Government has denied the the “higher-ups” not only violates the Dalai Lama entry 3 times. For which from Tibetan Classes rights of the Tibetan people but also I took them to court. Our people don’t indicates China’s annihilation of Tibetan have access to the truth about Tibet.” language and culture. The crackdown on these informal Tibetan classes during Highlighting the systematic repression the winter break and Tibetan language of freedom and rights in Tibet, he said in Yushu aggravated from around 2015 “How many know that Tibet is the least onwards when more restrictions curbed free region in the world after Syria. How the learning of Tibetan language. On many know of China’s exploitation January 27, 2016, Tashi Wangchuk was of Tibet’s mineral resources that are detained in Kyegudo for advocating for polluting land, water and air? How The Communist Party of China’s United Front the rights of the Tibetan people to learn many know of the self-immolations Work Department (UFWD) issued an order dated their language. Two years later, on May of desperate people dying for lack of December 25, 2018, banning Tibetan monasteries 22, the Yushul Intermediate People’s from teaching informal language classes during freedom? the school break. Court sentenced Tashi Wangchuk to five years. As for the informal Tibetan Tibetan students in Kham Nangchen, He further protested China’s “bizarre” classes, that has seen a total ban this Yushul (Chinese: Yushu) prefecture, criticism of CTA President’s visit to year. incorporated into China’s Qinghai South Africa last year. “Fortunately province, are barred from joining the there does seem to be a waning appetite The informal schools and their voluntary informal Tibetan classes in the global community for China’s students conducted by monasteries this winter anti-Tibet propaganda.” break for schools. Chinese authorities, Most of the students taking the free mainly the Communist Party of China’s For detailed news visit: Tibetan classes conducted by monks United Front Work Department (UFWD), and other volunteer teachers are young www.tibet.net issued an order dated December 25, teenagers, some belonging to the nearby

12 TIBETAN BULLETIN JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE nomadic villages. Attendees also include US Government approves USD 17 Million in students who were “sent to faraway Chinese places after the devastating 2010 Funding for Tibetans in Exile and Tibet-2019 Yushul earthquake such as Guangxi” The US President Donald Trump signed with distance of almost 3000kms away. the ‘Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2019’ on Friday, 15 February “Having spent a few years in China, these which sanctioned the fiscal year Tibetan children return home during 2019 funding for several government their winter school break with their departments through September 30, Tibetan language palpably weakened,” 2019. The Appropriation bill included explained the source. The students then (not less than) $8 million for the Tibet come to these classes to learn Tibetan Autonomous Region and other Tibetan poetry and grammar from the learned communities in China; $6 million for monks and other teachers. “These Tibetan community in India and Nepal; classes became a success as the students and $3 million to strengthen the capacity enjoy the classes. Sometimes they have of Tibetan institutions and governance in tea parties. But now it is impossible for exile. In addition to the total $17 million government through the rest of FY2019 even 10-20 people to have a gathering,” listed here, there are also other Tibetan ending on September 30, 2019,” he said. added our source. programs from the US government. The Tibet section is listed separately Last year, notice from school forbidding Expressing his gratitude to the US under ‘ and the Pacific’ Tibetan children from taking part in government and Congress for the Sec. 7043 (G) of The Consolidated religious activities were also reported funding, President Dr Lobsang Sangay Appropriations Act, 2018. in “Tibet Autonomous Region”. Yet, it of the Central Tibetan Administration is significant to note that this is the first said: “We remain grateful to the US The details of the funding are: known incident where the UFWD has government and the Congress for issued such order. their generous and continued financial (g)Tibet assistance towards the Tibetan On January 18 this year, the heads of the community in Tibet and exile.” (1)Financing of projects in Tibet United Front Work Department (UFWD) gathered for a meeting in . The Kelsang Dorjee Aukatsang, who The Secretary of the Treasury should state mouthpiece Xinhua reported that currently spearheads the Social and instruct the United States executive the officials were called for “enhanced Resources Development Fund (SARD), director of each international efforts” and “to create a strong sense of a CTA-run organisation responsible for financial institution to use the voice community for the Chinese nation.” The resource mobilisation and development and vote of the United States to UFWD is tasked to monitor political efforts of Tibetans in South Asia said support financing of projects in dissents, cultivate loyalty and suppress the passage of this legislation ensures Tibet if such projects do not provide “separatism” with specific bureaus that there will be no interruption to the incentives for the migration and allocated each for Tibet, Xinjiang and important development work within the settlement of non-Tibetans into Tibet Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, as well Tibetan community. or facilitate the transfer of ownership as another for “Ethnic and Religious of Tibetan land and natural resources Work”. “These funds are critical in Central to non-Tibetans, are based on a Tibetan Administration’s efforts to thorough needs-assessment, foster ensure the long-term resiliency of self-sufficiency of the Tibetan people the Tibetan community, culture, key and respect Tibetan culture and institutions, democracy, and leadership. traditions, and are subject to effective The deployment of these funds are monitoring. already beginning to produce results and we remain committed to spending (2)Programs for Tibetan communities the funds in an efficient, transparent and www.mwa.tibet.net high impact manner.” (A)Tibet autonomous region

“We are deeply grateful to see all Notwithstanding any other provision the Tibet-related funding renewed of law, of the funds appropriated by For detailed news visit: in H.J.Res. 31 — 116th Congress: this Act under the heading “Economic www.tibet.net Consolidated Appropriations Act, Support Fund”, not less than 2019 which funds the United States $8,000,000 shall be made available

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 13 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE to nongovernmental organizations 90,16,413.86 and an exgratia amount Due to the unprecedented scale of to support activities which preserve of INR 24,28,586.14 from the reserve damage caused by the cyclone Titli, cultural traditions and promote funds of the Department of Home. the Department of Home and the State sustainable development, education, government jointly conducted damage and environmental conservation in “So far we have received a donation of assessment survey and came to conclude Tibetan communities in the Tibet INR 90,16,413.86 from our well-wishers that the settlement suffered a total loss Autonomous Region and in other across the world and we remain thankful equivalent to INR 3 crores. Considering Tibetan communities in China. to all the organizations, both domestic the extent of the loss, the Department and international, NGOs, individuals of Home, CTA initiated a campaign to (B)India and Nepal who have expressed their solidarity with collect donations from the international us and our people in the settlement. Tibet supporters, Tibetan communities Of the funds appropriated by this in exile and NGOs to compensate losses Act under the heading “Economic “Similarly, I would like to extend my suffered by Tibetans in the settlement. Support Fund”, not less than sincere gratitude to the state government The urgent appeal was made on 24 $6,000,000 shall be made available for for compensating our people to the October 2018. programs to promote and preserve Tibetan culture, development, and the Subsequently, Wangdu Tsering, resilience of Tibetan communities in Secretary of the Department of Home India and Nepal, and to assist in the accompanied by section head Dhondup education and development of the next Tsering visited the settlement from generation of Tibetan leaders from 16 to 19 January this year to further such communities: Provided, That assess the situation and again, on 4 such funds are in addition to amounts February, Home Kalon Sonam Topgyal made available in subparagraph (A) Khorlatsang personally visited the for programs inside Tibet. Several hundreds of acres of crop destroyed as settlement. Kalon promised the residents Cyclone Titli made landfall in Odisha. Photo/DOH to deliver compensation to the tune (C)Tibetan governance of INR 114,45,000.00 based on the tune of INR 52,23, 678.00 and the assessment report. Of the funds appropriated by this Act compensation money due to the farmers under the heading “Economic Support have rightly been paid through bank Because of its proximity to the Bay Fund”, not less than $3,000,000 shall accounts of individual farmers.” of Bengal, the Phuntsokling Tibetan be made available for programs to Settlement is prone to devastation caused strengthen the capacity of Tibetan “As you can see in the statement, the by frequent cyclones. It was badly hit institutions and governance. Department of Home paid a sum of INR by cyclones in 1972, 1991, 1995, 2013, 24,28,586.14 to compensate the deficit.” 2014 and 2018 causing huge damage to Dispensation of Relief standing crops, plantations and houses. Secretary said the compensations funds to Phuntsokling made to the residents in the settlement Established in May 1963, the settlement were strictly according to the damage is one of the 45 Tibetan settlements Tibetan Settlement assessment report. under the direct supervision of the in the aftermath of Department of Home, CTA. The current As soon as the devastation caused by population of the settlement is 2092 with cyclone Titli cyclone Titli on 10 October 2018 was 398 families. The government of India in The residents of Orissa Phuntsokling reported to the Department of Home by co-ordination with the state government Tibetan Settlement who suffered the settlement officer, the section head allotted 1859 acres of land through the severe damage to their land, property of Agriculture section Dhondup Tsering Central Tibetan Relief Committee, the and harvest due to cyclone Titli were was deputed to the settlement to assess registered relief wing of the Department compensated through the relief funds the extent of damage and loss suffered of Home, CTA, for the livelihood of the appealed by the Department of Home, by the people. people of the settlement. CTA and CTA’s reserve funds for the settlement. The assessment found that nearly 80 percent of standing maize crop in For detailed news visit: In a press conference this morning, 1700 acres were damaged beyond Secretary Wangdu Tsering, Home repair. Many of the fruit and non-fruit www.tibet.net department presented a detailed plantations, as well as residential houses, statement of the dispensation of the relief suffered major damage. funds, which amounts to a total of INR

14 TIBETAN BULLETIN JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE China Closes Central Tibet to the World Ahead of 60th Anniversary of Tibetan National Uprising Day Foreign travelers are barred from visiting making sure that the law is implemented Central Tibet for two months as China has successfully.” closed the so-called Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) to the world. This closure The closure has become an annual comes just ahead of the anniversary of practice since the 2008 mass protests in the 1959 Tibetan National Uprising Day all regions of Tibet including “TAR”. and the 2008 mass protests. The news Last year China enforced similar closure about the closure was released by Tibet in the region between February 10 and tour agents while Chinese official media March 31. channels have remained silent on this A security camera monitored visitors to the ban. According to the tour agents, the in , the capital of the Tibet China has constantly received backlashes Autonomous Region in China. Photo/Aritz Parra/ TAR has been closed to foreigners from Associated Press from the international community and January 30 until April 1. human rights experts regarding the people’s peaceful protest on March 10, deteriorating human rights situation in 1959.” This year marks the 60th year of the Tibet and China. Tibetan National Uprising against “Even though China boasts off massive Chinese occupation in Tibet’s capital Earlier this month, in the Freedom of economic development, rights and Lhasa, which led to the violent the World Report 2019, Tibet is once special provisions for Tibetans in crackdown on Tibetans, killing of again ranked the second least free region Tibet, in reality, the Chinese authorities thousands of Tibetans in Tibet, and the in the world, even worse than North infringe the Tibetan people’s rights occupation of Tibet which eventually Korea. Over a dozen countries raised and freedoms, such as of religion and forced His Holiness the Dalai Lama and their concerns and questioned China on expression,” explained Secretary Dagpo. many Tibetans to escape into exile. Tibet’s situation during China’s third Universal Periodic Review at the UN He further said, “Foreign diplomats, The Central Tibetan Administration’s last November. media personnel, tourists and Tibetans spokesperson and Department of in exile are restricted from visiting Tibet Information & International Relations The shutdown of Central Tibet till whereas the Chinese officials visit the Secretary Dagpo Sonam Norbu April, on top of the already obsessively US freely whenever they like to. The US remarked, “The ban shows Tibet’s clamped-down region, will be a total Congress passed the Reciprocal Access instability under the Chinese rule and blackout period with all access to the to Tibet Act, now the implementation the Tibetan people’s constant defiance region and information flow blocked remains the most crucial part of the of Chinese occupation which it claims completely, naturally raising serious law. We have to actively engage in as ‘liberation of Tibet’ after the Tibetan concerns about the Tibetans. Department of Religion and Culture sanctions INR 2.5 Lakh towards Dhakpo Shedrupling Fire Relief No casualty has been reported.

Acting Secretary of Department of Religion and Culture, Dawa Tsultrim conducted an immediate fire-audit at the Monastery which revealed that the accident was caused by electrical short circuit. Secretary Tsultrim also held meetings with the local authorities, fire brigade and the Revenue Office to effectively file a fire-accident report.

Dhakpo Shedrupling Monastery was The Department of Religion and Culture Shedrupling Monastery. The Tibetan inaugurated by His Holiness the Dalai of Central Tibetan Administration monastery situated in Kais village of Lama on 12 May 2005. sanctioned Rs 2.5 Lakh to support relief Kullu in Himachal Pradesh caught fire and reconstruction efforts at Dhakpo on Wednesday, 13 February.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 15 FOCUS Media Reporting Conditions in China Worst in 2018: Foreign Correspondents’ Club of China The Foreign Correspondents’ Club of China surveyed its 204 member- journalists over the extent of foreign media freedom in China, the results of which “painted the darkest picture of reporting conditions inside China in recent memory”.

According to the report titled “Under Watch: Reporting in China’s Surveillance State,”, 55 per cent of respondents believed that government interference had worsened over the course of the year – the largest proportion since 2011, and a 10 per cent increase from the year before.

Not a single journalist believed that the conditions improved in the last year. security of their phones and 22 per Sichuan Province, when he and a cent said that they were aware of being photographer were escorted to a police The survey was conducted last December tracked by the authorities “using public station and detained for nearly 17 hours among 204 correspondents in Beijing, surveillance systems”. and, eventually, were expelled from the 109 of whom represented media from region. 31 countries and regions. In addition, China is today the second largest jailer bureau chiefs from nine international of journalists worldwide after Turkey. Myers later published an article on the news-gathering organisations were The Committee to Protect Journalists whole episode titled ‘A Dance for Tibetan interviewed extensively for the report. (CPJ) reported that at least 47 journalists New Year, Then 17 Hours in Custody’. were imprisoned in China at the end of He said: “China is a country that exudes “On a day-to-day basis, it’s worse now 2018. confidence in its rising place on the world than it has been in the past 20 years, stage — and yet its officials belie that with episodic exceptions like the [2011] China also ranked an abysmally low at confidence with their hypersensitivity Jasmine Revolution,” a bureau chief at 176 among 180 countries in the latest to what a foreign correspondent might a U.S. news organization said. “In the annual World Press Freedom Index encounter travelling untethered, and past, there were crackdowns, but you compiled by the Reporters Without thus uncensored… Today, the Tibet knew the reasons and expected them to Borders (RSF). Autonomous Region of China is off- end. What we’re dealing with now is a limits to journalists without special new normal.” Cédric Alviani, the head of RSF’s East permission.” Asia bureau said the constant harassment In March, Le Monde bureau chief The survey also revealed that reporting is all the more shocking when China Brice Pedroletti was followed by State on “sensitive regions” like Xinjiang or takes as much advantage as possible of Security many times during a reporting Tibet were off limits. “Official Chinese the press freedom in other countries in trip to Tibetan Ngaba Prefecture. Local regulations allow journalists to travel order to spread its propaganda. government officials followed him, anywhere within the country except proposing “help” and “assistance”. Even for the Tibet Autonomous Region”. Defacto Expulsion, Harassment though he clearly told them that he did Reporting in Xinjiang is also prohibited against Coverage on TAR and not want any help, they continued to or restricted as “sensitive areas”. Xinjiang follow.

Surveillance—human and digital— was In 2018, correspondents reported In October, Globe and Mail journalist also one of the major concerns as 48 numerous incidents of harassment, Nathan VanderKlippe was followed per cent of the correspondents reported violence, and interference by authorities. and tracked for nearly 1,600 kilometres being followed or their hotel room being In February 2018, New York Times across Xinjiang in a rental car. At least entered without permission while they journalist Steven Lee Myers was nine cars and 20 people, nameless and were out reporting. reporting from Dzongsar Monastery dressed in plain clothes, kept near- 91 per cent were worried about the in Kardze incorporated into China’s constant watch. “They are not following

16 TIBETAN BULLETIN JANUARY- FEBRUARY 2019 FOCUS you,” one propaganda official assured him. “They are you service.” Ministry of Home Affairs Issues Financial VanderKlippe was accused of fleeing the scene of an accident and, separately, Penalty for Late Renewal of RC/Stay Permit of breaking highway rules before being Important Announcement informed he had done neither of those According to a circular issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs/Foreigners Division, things. failure to renew the Registration Certificate/stay permit will be charged with financial penalty of USD 300 to 500 based on the visa expiration date. The Department of FCCC report documented several other Security, CTA issued a public advisory in this regard. incidences of harassment and forced expulsion. The circular reads as follows: Visa Harassment and Delays Financial penalty regarding overstay and visa violations: In apparent retaliation against the “negative” news coverage, Chinese S. No. Offense Penalty authorities either denied renewal of visas or issued severely shortened visas to foreign journalists, the survey showed. 1. (i) Overstay of more than 2 years; and/or USD 500

Megha Rajagopalan, former China (ii) Visa violations including indulging in bureau chief of Buzzfeed, was forced Tabligh activities, visiting a place in Protected/ to leave the country last year after her Restricted Area without the Permit, indulging in application for a journalism visa was activities which are not permitted under the visa denied without explanation. Rajagopalan granted to the foreigner etc. and/or had covered Asia extensively since 2012, and her report on surveillance (iii) Cases involving both overstay and visa technology in Xinjiang won recognition violations at the 2018 Human Rights Press Awards. 2. (i) Overstay from 91 days to 2 years; and/or USD 400

At least five correspondents—from the New York Times, the BBC, the (ii) any other minor offenses under the Foreigners Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Act, 1946, the Passport (Entry into India) Act Sankei Shimbun and 1920, the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939 were issued just two and a half month and other Indian laws visa. 3. Overstay up to 90 days and/or non-registration. USD 300 In case of persons belonging to minority “Officials at the Ministry of Foreign communities from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Affairs were explicit in saying they Afghanistan, the penalty for overstay will be as were not happy with my reporting in follows: Xinjiang and on the leadership,” said 4. For overstay of more than 2 years Rs. 500 ABC correspondent Matthew Carney, who received a visa of 2.5 months. For overstay from 91 days to 2 years Rs. 200 “It’s harassment,” Bill Ide, bureau chief for VOA, told the press club. “They’re For overstay up to 90 days Rs. 100 trying to send a message, but it’s unclear really what the message is, because we have asked them repeatedly to tell us specifically what led to the shortened visa and they have not given us any clarity.”

FCCC highlighted concerns that “such measures are being used to punish reporting.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 17 FEATURE His Holiness the Dalai Lama meets student delegation from the US and Israel

His Holiness the Dalai Lama speaking to students from the USA and Israel at his residence in Dharamsala, HP, India on January 28, 2019. Photo/OHHDL Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the cultivating emotional hygiene and Observing India’s harmonious co- Dalai Lama met with a group of students learning to tackle our destructive existence and religious tolerance, from the US and Israel at his residence in emotions is essential to mental fitness,” His Holiness suggested that Indians, Dharamshala where he gave a 40-minute His Holiness noted. particularly the Muslim communities audience. could teach, other Muslim communities In better understanding our inner world across the world, how to unite in In his preliminary remarks, His Holiness and managing them on the basis of harmonious co-existence. the Dalai Lama propounded the idea universal secular ethics, His Holiness of cultivating emotional hygiene and believed, will enable peace and And thirdly, as a Tibetan, His Holiness conducting ourselves as human brothers understanding. the Dalai Lama said he is committed to and sisters by affirming our fundamental preserving Tibetan language and culture, values of loving kindness, forgiveness He also stated his three principal the heritage Tibetans received from the and compassion for others. commitments and his latest commitment masters of India’s University to revive ancient Indian tradition. and the protection of Tibet’s natural His Holiness appealed for adopting a environment. human approach towards individual, “Firstly, on the level of a human being, social and political, national and my first commitment is the promotion In addition to his three principal environmental crises. of human values such as compassion, commitments, His Holiness emphasised forgiveness, tolerance, contentment and his fourth commitment to reviving He explained how cultivating self-discipline.” awareness of the value of ancient Indian compassion and warmheartedness knowledge among young Indians today. inevitably leads to self-confidence and He said, “Secondly, on the level of inner happiness. a religious practitioner, my second commitment is the promotion of For detailed news visit: “As necessary as physical hygiene is religious harmony and understanding www.tibet.net to maintaining our physical fitness, amongst different religious traditions.”

18 TIBETAN BULLETIN JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 FEATURE I am a student of ancient Indian knowledge and Indian Pramana, says His Holiness the Dalai Lama

His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Nobel Peace laureate and the greatest advocate of Tibetan culture, interfaith dialogue and universal ethics spoke Monday to a delegation led by Deepak Chopra, American-Indian author in Dharamshala. Watch the full conversation here.

The Tibetan leader introduced himself as a student of ancient Indian knowledge and Indian Pramana (Eng: Logic). He centrally spoke about the relevance of ancient Indian tradition in tackling emotional crisis and reviving the lost tradition through education and awareness.

“Learning to achieve peace of mind is His Holiness the Dalai Lama, alongside former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, addressing the basis for promoting peace in the the audience at celebrations of Nanak’s 550th Birth Anniversary in New Delhi, India on November world,” he said. His Holiness suggested 10, 2018. Photo by Tenzin Choejor that this profound knowledge of mind religious harmony,” His Holiness his plans to hold a meeting with Indian and emotions is much relevant today observed, adding that it should be more Nobel peace laureate, Kailash Satyarthi when tackling destructive emotions is so active in the promotion of religious in Delhi this year, which will eventually urgent. harmony, and demilitarisation. finalise a Nobel laureates meeting. “Obama will definitely come to the “India is the one country that has When asked about world leaders whom meeting,” he said. the potential to combine its ancient he admires most, His Holiness the Dalai knowledge with modern education for Lama named leaders such as Mahatma Deepak Chopra, who sat beside His the wider benefit of the world at large.” Gandhi, India’s first president Rajendra Holiness during the interaction asked Prasad and former German Chancellor him of his views on the effectiveness of Also in the conversation, His Holiness Willy Brandt. meditation, and feelings of drew attention to the elimination of warmheartedness in reducing risks of nuclear weapons throughout the world. His Holiness also fondly remembered disease and terminal illness. his friends former US President George He urged that there should be concerted Bush and Barack Obama with whom, he His Holiness said, “Scientists tell and vigorous efforts in the public space said, he connected instantly as friends. us of evidence that human is to achieve a world without nuclear compassionate. They also observe weapons. “We should not only rely on Recalling his last meeting with former US that constant anger, fear and hatred the United Nations, on a public level President Obama in Delhi, His Holiness undermine our immune system and so there should also be some movement said, “I told him ‘After me, you should are bad for our health. This is why in calling for denuclearisation. carry forward the promotion of world addition to physical hygiene we need to peace and nonviolence, and he[Obama] cultivate emotional hygiene, a focus on “India particularly should lead these promised.” His Holiness further added achieving peace of mind.” efforts in this and also in promoting

www.mwa.tibet.net

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 19 FEATURE Women can bring compassion into positions of power says His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Phagmo (Tib: ), who is the highest female incarnation in Tibet and regarded amongབསམ་སྡིང་རྡོ་རྗེ་ཕག་མོ the highest-ranking reincarnations at the time of the 5th Dalai Lama. The seat of the is at Samding Monastery, in Tibet.

His Holiness argued that nuns have an equal right to study, which is why 40 years ago he encouraged Tibetan nuns to study .

“In order to implement Buddha’ teaching equally on Bhikshu and Bhikshuni, I have been advocating equal rights for Tibetan nuns. We already have top scholars in Tibetan nuns. In terms of His Holiness the Dalai Lama meets all women delegation from Young Ficci Ladies Organisation (YFLO), scholarship, monks and nuns are on Delhi at his residence on 18 February 2019. same level.” Encouraging more women to assume more empathic and sensitive to the leadership roles is not only good for the feelings of others, qualities embodied by His Holiness suggested that more women lot but according to His Holiness mothers. “They have an important role women should assume leadership in the Dalai Lama, this could also benefit in making the 21st century a century of governance and politics. “We should the entire world. Women at the helm of peace.” have more female politicians like Indira power could secure a more peaceful, Gandhi Ji. It’s good,” he exclaimed. compassionate future for the 7 billion Women who lead in politics and social human beings, says the Tibetan spiritual settings have the zeal to empower A representative of Young Ficci Ladies leader. other individuals and uplift them from Organisation (YFLO) thanked His sufferings. However, His Holiness said Holiness the Dalai Lama for the meeting Study history, and you will see that they should be determined to unravel and acknowledged his ardent support for throughout every era, men who have their potential. women’s rights. been responsible for carnage and destruction have been celebrated as Attesting his utmost support for women Launched in 2004, the YFLO promotes heroes when they should have been potential, His Holiness reiterated his entrepreneurship and professional criticized as wrongdoers. There may be position on the possibility for a future excellence in women through its some exceptions but generally speaking female Dalai Lama. He said Buddhist educational and vocational training all trouble-makers are male, His Holiness tradition offers equal rights for both programmes, talks, seminars, panel said this morning as he was meeting an genders and that there could be a female discussions and workshops on a vast all-women delegation from the Young Dalai Lama in the future. range of subjects especially concerning Ficci Ladies Organisation (YFLO). women and business. “In Tibetan history, for over 7 centuries “Now in 21st century, we should make a the highest lama institution was led special effort to promote human loving- by female. Many Tibetan female kindness. In that regard, women should practitioners have proved spiritually take more active role particularly in the qualified and eventually becoming education field for the promotion of highly realised spiritual masters. After deeper human values.” all, Buddha himself gave equal rights to Bhikshu and Bhikshuni.” www.mwa.tibet.net Stating that women are models of humanity, His Holiness said they are He cited examples of Samding Dorje For detailed news visit: www.tibet.net

20 TIBETAN BULLETIN JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 FEATURE Exile has been a blessing for Tibetan culture, religion and identity to thrive: His Holiness the Dalai Lama on Chotrul Duchen

Marking the festival of Chotrul Duchen, one of the four major observed by Tibetan Buddhists on the fifteenth day of the first Tibetan month, His Holiness the Dalai Lama gave teachings on the , the Eight Verses of Mind Training and the Praise to the 17 Nalanda masters.

The first fifteen days of the Tibetan lunar year celebrate the fifteen days on which—in order to increase the and the devotion of future disciples— Buddha displayed different miracles.

Every year on the occasion of Chotrul Duchen, His Holiness the Dalai Lama gives teachings on the Jataka Tales. The His Holiness the Dalai Lama giving teachings on the final day of the Great Prayer Festival at Tsuglag- tradition began with , khang, Dharamshala on 19 February 2019. Photo/Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL who in 1409 founded the Great Prayer “Tibetans who live freely in exile are He concluded his remarks with a hopeful Festival, the Mönlam Chenmo. The a source of hope to their brothers and statement that the just cause of Tibet festival was celebrated for 550 years in sisters in Tibet. And likewise, Tibetans will soon prevail and acknowledged the Lhasa and continues today. in Tibet have remained our inspiration.” contribution and dedication of all former and present leaders and members of the Among the scores of devotees at today’s In retrospect, His Holiness said he saw Central Tibetan Administration. discourse were the officials and staff the six decades of Tibetan exile as “a of Central Tibetan Administration blessing in disguise”, an opportunity In his two-hour-long teaching session, including the heads of the Autonomous to re-invigorate Tibetan identity as a His Holiness explained how Tibetan bodies, Speaker of Tibetan Parliament- people of unique culture, heritage and Buddhism was akin to an heir to the in-Exile, Kalons, Members of Tibetan religious tradition. Nalanda Tradition with the Tibetan Parliament, Secretaries and other language offering the most accurate functionaries. “Today our culture and religion have explanation of Buddhist canons. garnered admiration and respect from all Kalon Karma Gelek Yuthok, Department corners of the world. And, unlike other “Tibetan Buddhist literature not only of Religion and Culture made an religious traditions, Tibetan Buddhist contains the largest number of texts, auspicious offering of the to tradition can confidently engage with it presents the best translations and His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the modern scientists.” the Tibetan spiritual most comprehensive Buddhist canons. occasion. leader said on Tuesday. Tibetan translations that comprise Kagyur and are the largest body Speaking to the officials of the Central “These are fruition of the farsighted and of Indian anywhere in the Tibetan Administration and Tibetans visionary leadership of the great dharma world.” present, His Holiness exuded pride kings, erudite scholars and masters of and conviction that the Tibetan people, Tibet. Today, the six million Tibetans are He said the was refined despite facing adversities, have more united than ever.” at the time based on an Indian model. remained steadfast in their commitment Tibetan dharma king to the cause and preservation of Tibetan His Holiness implored that in harnessing invited Shantarakshita from Nalanda religious and cultural heritage. the potential teachings of the culture University to establish Buddhism in and religion, Tibetans are in a unique Tibet. “This is how we came to adopt “The undaunted and unwavering spirit position to serve the good of humanity. the Nalanda Tradition, which involves of Tibetans in Tibet and the committed “We must make our efforts and time in an intense study of philosophy using efforts of those in exile have ensured exile meaningful and worthwhile.” reason and logic.” that the Tibet issue is not forgotten,” His Holiness said.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 21 FEATURE His Holiness the Dalai Lama begins teachings on Essence of the , Uma Nyingpo His Holiness the Dalai Lama has urged human beings are responsible for global world leaders meeting in Poland for the warming and the change in weather COP24 Climate Conference to take a conditions. Logically this means that serious transformative action on tackling we human beings have a responsibility climate change and find “constructive to reduce problems that we have caused, solutions to global warming.” and finally to eliminate them. His Holiness the Dalai Lama after concluding his teachings on Jataka Tales and other texts on the Delegates and decision makers from “Climate change is not the concern of festival of Chotrul Duchen, 19 February 2019. almost 200 countries are currently just one or two nations. It is an issue Photo/Tenzin Jigme/CTA meeting at the 24th Conference of the that affects all humanity, and every “The tradition of rigorous study, practice Parties to the United Nations Framework living being on this earth. This beautiful using logic has enabled Tibetan scholars on Climate Change in planet is our only home. If, due to to successfully engage in two-way Poland. The Conference aims to hammer global warming or other environmental dialogue with modern scientists. If we out a roadmap for putting into practice problems, the earth cannot sustain itself, wish these traditions to survive now we the 2015 Paris climate agreement. there is no other planet to wish we can have to engage them with our intellect.” His Holiness the Dalai Lama has, His Holiness also gave short teachings for many decades, advocated for on the Eight Verses of Mind Training environmental and climate change (Tib. ) and Praise to action. He has authored many articles the 17 Nalanda Masters. and opinions on protecting the world’s བློ་སྦྱོང་ཚིགས་རྐང་བརྒྱད་མ་ environment. His Holiness has also His Holiness said he received the made environment conservation one of first teaching on the text from Tadrak his three lifelong commitments. and later from Kyabje His Holiness the Dalai Lama reads from Bha- Trichang Rinpoche, His Holiness’ Message from His Holiness the Dalai vaviveka’s “Essence of the Middle Way” at the former senior tutor. Lama to Delegates at COP24, Poland, Main Tibetan Temple in Dharamsala, HP, India on dated 20 November 2018 February 20, 2019. Photo/Tenzin Jigme/CTA The first seven verses of the Eight Verses for Training the Mind deal with “I extend my greetings and prayers to my move. We have to take serious action the practices associated with cultivating dear brothers and sister, delegates to the now to protect our environment and the method aspect of the path such as 24th Conference of the Parties (COP24) find constructive solutions to global compassion, altruism, aspiration to to the United Nations Framework warming. attain , the wisdom aspect Convention on Climate Change. of the path. “When we see photographs of the “I would sincerely like to thank all of you earth from space, we see no boundaries who have selflessly and tirelessly put between us, just this one blue planet. For detailed news visit: effort into creating a better environment This is no longer a time to think only www.tibet.net for the world so that future generations of ‘my nation’ or ‘our continent’ alone. will be able to live a healthy, happy life. There is a real need for a greater sense of global responsibility based on a sense “As someone born in Tibet, the rooftop of the oneness of humanity. of the world, where Asia’s great rivers and on which the world’s highest peaks “I want to thank United Nations are to be found, I have loved nature Framework Convention on Climate since my childhood. I have made Change (UNFCCC) for consistently environmental conservation one of working to reduce the negative impact my life’s commitments and advocate of climate change and pray that this www.mwa.tibet.net protection of the environment wherever conference will be a success.” I go. “In spite of the huge technological For detailed news visit: developments that have taken place in our modern world, we have created www.tibet.net many problems, too. Experts tell us that

22 TIBETAN BULLETIN JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 FEATURE CTA’s Department of Education offers long life prayers to His Holiness the Dalai Lama The Department of Education, Central “Due to the kindness of Master Tibetan Administration, Gyalrong Shantarakshita, Tibetan dharma kings community from exile and Tibet, Tibetan and Panditas, we have inherited sweater sellers association and Tibetan this profound Buddhist culture and medical practitioner Menpa Kelsang tradition—the insights of which has Dhonden offered long life prayers (Tib: much potential to contribute to world Tenshug) to Tibetan spiritual leader His peace,” His Holiness the Dalai Lama Holiness the Dalai Lama on Wednesday. said.

Speaking at the Tenshug ceremony He claimed that the unflinching spirit and this morning, His Holiness the Dalai courage of the Tibetan people is rooted His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressing the audience during the long life prayer offering Lama acknowledged and thanked the in its culture, religion and language. by Department of Education, Gyalrong Tibetan organisers for their sincere prayers. community, Tibetan sweater sellers association “Politically, Tibet has remained and Menpa Kelsang Dhonden. Photo/Tenzin “The members of organisers and Tibetan disintegrated through many periods in Phende/CTA people in general have expressed history. But spiritually, the entire three particularly the Nalanda tradition, is unwavering faith and prayers for my provinces of Dotoe, Domey and Utsang part of the culture and tradition of the long life. This sacred prayer ceremony have remained united for centuries. Our Tibetans. is rooted in the spiritual bond between language, culture and religion have and the teacher and his disciples. Therefore, continues to unite us.” “Although the concept is derived I am certain that your prayers will surely from religious literature, we shouldn’t bear positive results.” He remarked that it was under the necessarily deal with it from the point Tibetan emperor Trisong Detsen and of of religion. We can take an The 83-year-old Dalai Lama suggested Master Shantarakshita’s initiative that academic approach.” that he was looking forward to taking Tibetans translated Indian Buddhist more rest and switching to a lighter literature into Tibetan, resulting in the He argued that inner transformation schedule. more than 300 volumes of the is not a matter of faith or prayer, but and Tengyur. In the process, the Tibetan involves reason and the use of human “I am nearing the age of when the first language was refined based on the rich intelligence. “Which explains why I Dalai Lama Gendun Drup passed away. Indian literature. proposed the term ‘Buddhist philosophy In order to live long and healthy, I must teacher’ to be used in our schools instead now recline from public teachings and The Tibetan Buddhist Canons—the of a spiritual teacher.” engagements and get more rest instead. Kangyur, texts ascribed to the Buddha Don’t you agree?” His Holiness asked and the Tengyur, exegetical treatises In his address, His Holiness expressed his devout followers. composed by Indian masters—form the his hope in the Tibetan monastics and primary canonical authority for Tibetan those pursuing the Buddhist tradition to Reading from the statements submitted Buddhism. carry forward his commitment to revive by the Department of Education, His the Nalanda tradition in modern India. Holiness the Dalai Lama applauded “Among the Chinese and canon, their solemn pledges to impart holistic the is arguably “The future of humanity depends on the education to younger Tibetan generation the sole surviving version of Indian adoption of a positive mental attitude based on the values of Tibetan culture scriptures. In addition, the Tibetan by the current generation. The ancient and tradition and modern sciences; and tradition which originated at Nalanda Indian tradition offers instruments to to uphold and fulfill the four principal University follows the path of reason tackle the emotional crisis and promote commitments of His Holiness. and logic.” basic inner qualities. If such knowledge is educated to our youths and emulated President of Central Tibetan His Holiness further noted that Tibetan in the largest populations like China Administration, Heads of the three pillars translations comprise the largest body of and India, this could ensure a happier of Tibetan democracy which includes Indian Buddhist texts anywhere in the and more peaceful world,” His Holiness the Kashag, Tibetan Parliament-in- world. concluded. Exile and the Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission, heads of the Autonomous Drawing focus on Secular Ethics, His The Tenshug ceremony was led by bodies and Secretaries were present at Holiness said the concept being derived former Kalon Tripa Samdong Rinpoche the Tenshug ceremony. from Tibetan Buddhist philosophy, as the Dorje .

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 23 FEATURE

His Holiness the Dalai Lama begins two-day teaching for Mongolian Buddhists

at the time. The later explained to him in Mongolian.”

He added, “As for Tibet and Mongolia, we have had close relations for well over 1000 years. Both peoples uphold the practice of Buddhist lineage as introduced by the great Nalanda masters.”

In the past, His Holiness said, Mongolians studying in the monasteries in Tibet were all dedicated students of philosophy. “When I was studying in Lhasa, I had 17 debating assistants selected from the colleges of Drepung, Ganden and Sera Monasteries. Among them, the best, and personally, the most His Holiness the Dalai Lama begins teaching on Je Tsongkhapa’s ‘Concise Stages of the Path’ and ‘In Praise of Dependent of Origination’ through live teleconference participated by Buddhist groups from influential, was Ngodup Tsognyi who Mongolia on Thursday, 28 February 2019. came from the Abak region of Inner His Holiness the Dalai Lama gave Gyatso, took birth in Mongolia to the Mongolia.” teachings on Je Tsongkhapa’s ‘Concise Chokar tribal chieftain Tsultrim Choeje, Stages of the Path’ and ‘In Praise of who was the grandson of . His Holiness named several prominent Dependent of Origination’ through a live Mongolian scholars who practiced in teleconference participated by Buddhist “Similarly, during the time of the Fifth Tibet: the Abbot of Gomang Sogpo groups from Mongolia on Thursday, 28 Dalai Lama, Tibet was in the midst of Lekden; the Abbot of Gyumey February. a political turmoil. It was due to the Ka; Abbot Thubten Nyima; and initiative of Gushir Khan, the chief of Sogpo Yeshi, one of the companions In the two-hour teaching course, His the Qoshot that the situation during His Holiness’ Lharampa Holiness the Dalai Lama celebrated the was brought under control. As a result, exam. centuries-old friendship and spiritual in 1642, the Fifth Dalai Lama was bond shared by the previous Dalai enthroned as both spiritual and political “These were the last Mongolian scholars Lamas and the emperors of Mongolia. leader of Tibet.” to have come to Tibet. Today in exile, we have several hundred Mongolian His Holiness said the title Dalai Lama “Furthermore, In 1904, the 13th Dalai monk students studying in Tibetan by which He is referred and renowned Lama, Thupten Gyatso, travelled to monasteries,” His Holiness said. worldwide was offered by Mongolian Mongolia to give teachings and he had King Altan Khan to the Third Dalai a very good command over Mongolian Asking his Mongolian devotees to Lama Sonam Gyatso. speech.” become 21st century Buddhists, His Holiness said sound faith is based on “In 1578 the Mongol ruler Altan Khan His Holiness recounted a short anecdote knowledge and reason. “Follow and gave the title ‘Dalai Lama’ to Sonam from the time of the 13th Dalai Lama, practice Buddhist teachings on the basis Gyatso, the third Dalai Lama. The title which was shared by his mentor Ngodup of sound understanding and through means ‘Ocean of Wisdom’ and He was Tsognyi who also hailed from Mongolia. studying the classic texts composed by the first Dalai Lama to be called by that Nalanda masters.” title,” His Holiness said. “The word “Ngodup Tsognyi told me that during ‘Dalai’ has otherwise no meaning in the ceremony of receiving Bhikshu Tibetan.” ordination from the 13th Dalai Lama, he was repeatedly asked by the Dalai Lama The spiritual bond was further deepened to pull up the pleats of his robe. Ngodup when the Fourth Dalai Lama, Yonten Tsognyi did not understand Tibetan

24 TIBETAN BULLETIN JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 WORLD PRESS ICT to name its Tibetan Empowerment programs to honor the contribution of Lodi Gyaltsen Gyari The ICT board have decided to name By dedicating these programs to the Act of 2018 was one such initiative the different Tibetan empowerment memory of Mr. Gyari, the International taken up during the Tibet Lobby Days in programs undertaken by our organization Campaign for Tibet is committing the past few years. as the Lodi Gyari Tibetan Empowerment itself to continuing his work for the Program to honor his contribution and empowerment of the Tibetan people, in 3. Rowell Fund for Tibet: memory. Tibet as well as in exile. The Rowell Fund for Tibet, established by friends and family of Galen and Mr. Gyari, the retired Special Envoy “Lodi Gyari has blazed the trail for Barbara Rowell, in cooperation with the of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tibetans on the international scene, International Campaign for Tibet, has for senior official of the Central Tibetan demonstrating a unique capacity to years supported Tibetans whose work Administration, and Executive interact with leaders of democratic can make a significant contribution in Chairman of the International Campaign countries to embrace and support the the fields of visual arts, the environment, for Tibet, passed away on October vision of His Holiness the Dalai Lama media and women’s rights. The fund is 29, 2018 in San Francisco. Mr. Gyari for a peaceful solution to the Tibetan managed by ICT and has impacted the had served as the Special Envoy crisis. While leading ICT for over two lives of several hundred Tibetan artists of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in decades, Lodi Gyari has made the and other professionals. Washington DC while simultaneously empowerment of Tibetan communities holding the position of the President of in exile an integral and strategic part of 4. Tibetan Parliamentarians Program the International Campaign for Tibet. our work that continue to this day. We in Europe: During his tenure, Mr. Gyari was able to are therefore very proud to rename these ICT Europe has a program to bring make profound political, economic and program after him not only to honor this delegations of Tibetan Parliamentarians social contributions to the Tibetan cause. extraordinary legacy, but to keep it alive for a study tour of Europe. The Through building on the visits by His for the younger generations of Tibetans,” delegation meets with Parliamentarians Holiness the Dalai Lama and undertaking said Matteo Mecacci, President of the and other leaders, cultural visits and effective follow up initiatives, Mr. Gyari International Campaign for Tibet. opportunity to share and discuss a wide was able to successfully institutionalize range of issues relating Tibet. the Tibetan issue within the United The Lodi Gyari Tibetan Empowerment States government. Programs consist of the following: 5. Humanitarian Assistance to the Tibetan community: He was an impassioned advocate for the 1. Tibetan Youth Leadership ICT Germany has been undertaking Tibetan people and believed that they Program: a focused humanitarian assistance should be empowered to take the lead A week-long program in Washington, initiative with the Tibetan Children’s in the Tibetan movement. Accordingly, D.C. that provides a select group Village in India that includes funding during his tenure, the different offices of engaged Tibetan American for health and education of the Tibetan of the International Campaign for Tibet youngsters with a rich environment for children, in order to safeguard Tibetan initiated several programs aimed at understanding the American political children’s right to education and health. benefiting the Tibetan people. They process, exchanging information include the Tibetan Youth Leadership and ideas, and building a network of 6. Political Prisoners Rehabilitation Program; The Rowell Fund for future leaders. Some participants of Program: Tibet; Tibet Lobby Day; Tibetan this program have subsequently been ICT has a Political Prisoners Parliamentarians Program in Europe; working in the United States Congress Rehabilitation Program that includes and humanitarian assistance to the and Administration. assisting former political prisoners in Tibetans in exile. different ways. They include monetary 2. Tibet Lobby Day: support and assistance in rehabilitation. These programs support the vision of the The annual Tibet Lobby Day is a Currently, ICT Europe provides Dalai Lama in encouraging the Tibetan powerful tool for empowering Tibetans assistance to a select group of former Diaspora towards democratization of living in the west. We bring together political prisoners to empower them by their governance system and to make Tibetans and Tibet supporters to come facilitating them to become politically the Tibetan community self-reliant, and lobby members of Parliament active, assist them to develop the empowered to make decisions affecting and their staff to achieve set strategic necessary skills, in order for them to their life, now and in the future, and to objectives. These include urgent matters present their case to politicians, media safeguard their rights. concerning political prisoners to passing and the public at large, and help them of legislations affecting the Tibetan with publications or translations of their people. The Reciprocal Access to Tibet memoirs, experiences or visions.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 25 WORLD PRESS

Authorities Use Welfare Payments Against Tibetan Buddhists Reported by Li Zaili

Tibetan people by controlling their livelihoods. When they control Tibetans fully, they will eliminate their religious beliefs. Constrained by their survival needs, the Tibetans will have no choice but to capitulate to the government.

The attempt to deny welfare to religious Tibetans is only the latest in a long line of abuses and persecutions imposed on this suffering people. Various regulations have been issued to achieve comprehensive control over Tibetan Buddhist monks, nuns, and temples, and the government has even tried to control the reincarnation system of Tibetan Buddhism. Civil servants have also been targeted. On January 9, a Voice of Tibet Poor Tibetans lose their land, then lose 50s, was scared. She didn’t dare to report quoting the Tibetans in China their subsistence allowances unless they perform Kora or worship Buddha, as stated that the CCP authorities had issued stop the practice of Buddhism. Grid the authorities are monitoring her every a ban prohibiting officials in Lhasa city Administrators monitor. move. (Kora is a religious activity, as from participating in Buddhist religious well as the means of how the Tibetans activities, threatening that those who In May of 2018, authorities ordered show religious devotion. Kora is both disobey will lose their welfare benefits impoverished Tibetans who live on a type of pilgrimage and a form of for life. minimum subsistence allowances from meditative practice in the Tibetan the state to stop worshiping Buddha or Buddhist or traditions.) (All names in this text are pseudonyms.) face the prospect of their subsistence allowances being canceled. This According to sources, the local new order represents an escalation government appointed a grid of the historic policy of the Chinese administrator to keep the Tibetans under Communist Party (CCP) to persecute surveillance from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tibetans and to force them to abandon their religious beliefs. Dolkar is an elderly widower in his 70s and a devout Buddhist. With the Bitter Winter interviewed a number of authorities employing such methods to Tibetans from Lhasa city in the Tibet coerce him into not worshipping Buddha, Autonomous Region recently. Numerous the old man has suffered greatly. Every sources confirm that the government day, he says, he helplessly sits in front appropriated the land of many local of his front gate, idly passing the time Tibetans several years ago, leaving many he has left. without income or food for survival. As a result, many Tibetans who were unable “It’s good to worship the Buddha. to earn a living had to depend on the [Buddhists] don’t steal or rob others – minimum living allowances provided it’s all about teaching the good. Why is by the government. This latest order to the government so determined to restrict deny subsistence benefits threatens not and suppress our religious beliefs?” one only the freedom of religion, but the Tibetan asked. very survival of many poor Buddhists. Some analysts believe there is a hidden You can download this book from After the ban on worship for recipients plot behind the appropriation of land and tibet.net. of the subsistence allowances was distribution of subsistence allowances. announced, Dolma, a woman in her The CCP wants to take control of the

26 TIBETAN BULLETIN JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 WORLD PRESS

Why China isn’t ready to invade Taiwan – yet By Josh K. Elliott, International Global News

China’s banner reading “ One China, Two System, One Unified China is seen from a former military fort in Kinmen County, Taiwan, ahead of the 60th anniver- sary of the second Taiwan Strait crisis with China. August 20 2018. Reuters/Tyrone Siu President Xi Jinping wants to restore Xi’s comments sparked a rebuke Despite the escalating rhetoric, experts China to its former glory – and that from Taiwan’s president, Tsai Ing- tell Global News an imminent military means bringing Taiwan under the wen. “China must face the fact of the conflict is unlikely. Communist Party’s control, one way or existence of Taiwan, and not deny the another. system of a democratic county that While Ian Easton, a research fellow at has been commonly built up by the the Project 2049 Institute, says “this is a That was the gist of Xi’s direction- Taiwanese people,” she said in a speech very dangerous flashpoint,” he points out setting New Year’s speech on Jan. 2, the next day. that China would fail if it tried to invade when he addressed a packed house at the Taiwan in 2019. However, China’s Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Xi’s Tsai’s pro-independence party, the chances for victory will be much greater speech marked 40 years since China Democratic Progressive Party, replaced in five-to-10 years, once it’s finished stopped regular artillery bombardment the China-friendly Kuomintang party building up its military. of Taiwan-controlled islands off the in 2016, making it less likely than Chinese coast. While he spoke at length ever that Taipei will accept a peaceful “The farther forward you project, the about peace, he also made it clear that “reunification” with the Communist- more likely it becomes that there will be a he’s running out of patience for polite governed mainland. If anything, the military crisis in the Taiwan Strait,” said politics. back-and-forth might cement the two Easton, author of the book The Chinese sides in opposition to one another. Invasion Threat: Taiwan’s Defense and “We are willing to create a vast space for American Strategy in Asia. “They’re peaceful unification, but we will never Xi’s comments are raising fears of building up all the capabilities that leave any room for any sort of Taiwan a military conflict between the two they would need to launch a potential independence or separatist activities,” sides, even if it’s not China’s preferred invasion of Taiwan at some point in the Xi said from his seat at the front of the option. Taiwan announced a new round next decade.” auditorium. He then directly addressed of military drills aimed at fending the scope of action China may use to off invasion after Xi’s remarks, and Here’s why China is so focused on enforce this: “We do not promise to President Tsai has asked international controlling Taiwan, and why it probably renounce the use of force and reserve the leaders to pledge their help in the event can’t take over the island by force – at option to use all necessary measures.” of a crisis. least for now.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 27 WORLD PRESS

The enemy next door “No leader wants to be the one who let in a very shocking, sudden fashion,” he part of the holy motherland be ceded,” said. China has long viewed Taiwan as a rogue she told Global News. “If they did province run by nationalists who never they would become… the sinner of the Easton says China might use one of accepted losing the Chinese Civil War in nation.” these provocative actions to test Taiwan 1949, when Mao Zedong’s Communists in 2019, just to see how it and the U.S. rose to power. Taiwan views itself as a The United States and many other might react. However, the chances of a free and democratic country that stands nations – including Canada – have full-scale Chinese invasion are unlikely apart from the controlling Communist tip-toed around the Taiwan issue for this year, he said. Rather, China will Party. However, it can’t officially declare decades in an effort to maintain friendly probably wait and see if a more Beijing- it’s full independence from China, lest it relations with China. Most nations do friendly government wins the next face some form of attack. not officially recognize Taiwan as a Taiwan election in 2020. country, but they still maintain unofficial Many western nations treated Taiwan diplomatic and economic relationships If that doesn’t happen, the situation as the “true” China until 40 years ago, with its government. might tilt toward a larger conflict. when the Communist government in Beijing started reaching out to the world. All but 17 of the world’s nations have Keeping the peace That same year, in 1979, the U.S. shifted stopped acknowledging Taiwan as a diplomatic relations to Beijing while country, in accordance with Beijing’s China has ramped up pressure on Taiwan promising to continue selling weapons “One China” policy. since the pro-independence Democratic to Taiwan for its defence. Progressive Party (DPP) took power in President Xi’s speech on Jan. 2 marked The U.S. is perhaps Taiwan’s closest 2016, ending a 20-year run by the more that anniversary. unofficial ally. Washington has a deal China-friendly Kuomintang (KMT) with Taipei to sell it weapons and keep party. Taiwan had been drifting closer to Taiwan – which officially calls itself the its naval fleet nearby. Experts say the China under the KMT, so when the DPP Republic of China – occupies a large U.S. would probably help the island took over, Beijing decided to punish the island separated from mainland China in the event of an invasion, but there island. It cut ties with Taipei, poached by the Taiwan Strait, a 160-kilometre- is no formal agreement that forces the its diplomatic partners and barred wide stretch of water off China’s east Americans to do so – and no guidelines Taiwanese officials from international coast. The self-governed island of for how to deal with smaller-scale acts gatherings. approximately 23.6 million people of Chinese aggression. has strong economy with a gross The DPP lost ground to the KMT in domestic product of approximately “No one can be completely sure what the regional elections last November, much US$572 billion. It’s a booming hub United States would do in the event of a to the delight of China. for technology, shipping and banking, crisis,” Easton said. He points out that and it occupies a key strategic position the Trump administration has opened up Professor Chiu-Duke, of UBC, suspects between China and the Pacific Ocean. more diplomatic channels with Taiwan, China’s latest threats are aimed at but the president’s erratic approach to pushing Taiwan back toward a more “Taiwan serves as a gateway to the global politics makes it hard to know for China-friendly government in its 2020 Western Pacific, and if that gateway is in sure if he would back Taipei in a crisis. presidential election, by raising the the American sphere of influence, it can possibility of war if the island re-elects be used to blockade China,” Easton said. “Because of that strategic ambiguity, the DPP. He adds that Taiwan is an extremely (China) is always trying to test American valuable location for intelligence resolve on Taiwan,” Easton said. “Most of the people on the island are gathering, because it allows American very realistic and pragmatic,” she said. spies to monitor China from a close There is no definite naval border between “They know Taiwan is a very small area, vantage point. Taiwan and China, because China does and nobody wants war.” not recognize Taiwan as a separate It’s also a symbolically important piece country. However, Taiwan holds sway She adds that Xi is also likely using of territory for Xi’s ruling Chinese over several islands in the strait, Taiwan to distract the Chinese people Communist Party (CCP), according to including Kinmen, a tiny archipelago from the slowing economy, which is associate professor Josephine Chiu- just a few kilometres from China. suffering from the effects of a trade war Duke, who teaches Chinese intellectual with the U.S. history at the University of British China could challenge Taiwan and Columbia’s Centre for Asian Studies. the U.S. at any point by seizing one of Despite China’s threats of violence, it She says letting go of Taiwan would be these islands, sinking a Taiwanese ship probably won’t use force unless it loses a “criminal” act in the eyes of the CCP. or launching a few missiles across the all hope of reunification, according to Jie strait, Easton said. “That can be done Daleil, an associate professor at Peking 28 TIBETAN BULLETIN JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 WORLD PRESS

University’s School of International US$170.4 billion last year, according “When you’re talking about an all-out, Studies. to a reportfrom the U.S. government’s massive military operation, there are a Defense Intelligence Agency. Taiwan lot of warnings and indicators that that’s “Although Xi stressed that all options are spent approximately $10.7 billion on its coming,” he said. on the table, unless Taipei makes radical own defence last year. China has several moves to establish Taiwan independence thousand more tanks, artillery weapons, Brent Christensen, who serves as the or Washington rattles the ‘One China’ missile launchers, attack helicopters, unofficial U.S. ambassador in Taipei, policy in a major way, Beijing will fighter jets and warships than Taiwan reassured Taiwan in October that the probably pursue its peaceful game plan does, according to estimates on the U.S. would support it in a military for the foreseeable future,” he wrote in military-tracking websites Global Fire conflict with China. an analysis piece for The Washington Power and ArmedForces.EU. Post. “Any effort to determine the future of However, time, weather and terrain Taiwan by other than peaceful means Chiu-Duke says China could simply would be on Taiwan’s side in the event represents a threat to the peace and blockade Taiwan and wage economic of an invasion, Easton says. security of the Western Pacific area and war against its government in order is of grave concern to the United States,” to bring it on side. She points out that Taiwan’s military fires an 8 inch Christensen said at a press conference in Taiwan is likely riddled with Chinese Howitzer and 155mm canons during a Taipei on Oct. 31. “We are opposed to agents already, and it wouldn’t be hard live fire exercise Wednesday, Oct. 29, unilateral attempts to change the status for China to co-opt Taiwanese officials 2008, on the Taiwan island of Kinmen, quo.” into doing its bidding. formerly Quemoy, just 2 kilometers off of the coast of China. He added at the time that the U.S. remains “They can control Taiwan without using committed to helping Taiwan defend one missile, so why should they try to Any Chinese invasion would have itself, as evidenced by a $330-million start a war?” Chiu-Duke said. “So far, to happen in April or October, when weapons deal signed in 2018. Xi Jingping always talks big, but if you conditions on the Taiwan Strait are examine what he does… he’s not that calm enough for amphibious assault Chiu-Duke doesn’t think an invasion aggressive.” ships to cross, Easton says. These ships is imminent but she wouldn’t rule it would make easy targets for Taiwan’s out entirely. She says President Xi is Taking Taiwan by force submarines, aircraft and defensive focused on his “dream” of making China missiles, meaning the Chinese would a rich and powerful country. That’s why Experts say a Chinese invasion of have to overwhelm Taiwan’s defences China has accelerated its space program, Taiwan would be extremely bloody and and jam its communications in order to built up its military fleet and expanded damaging for both sides. get enough ships through its presence in the South China Sea.

“Taiwan would be ruined and many Even if the Chinese managed to land provinces along the (Chinese coast) on Taiwan’s shoreline, they would However, China will never achieve its would be destroyed,” said Chiu-Duke. have a very difficult time establishing full glory unless it can deal with the a beachhead against Taiwan’s ground rebellious island on its doorstep, she “It would be a tremendously bloody troops, Easton says. He thinks Taiwan said. war,” Easton said. “Both sides would could hold off a Chinese invasion for take massive losses. You’re talking several months, which would give the “It’s not to say I’m not worried – about hundreds of thousands dead on U.S. plenty of time to step in and help. I’m worried sick,” she said. “But both sides. It would be really ugly.” realistically, I just don’t think Xi Jinping Taiwan would also be able to launch could be so foolish (as to attack Taiwan). A Chinese invasion of Taiwan would counterattacks against mainland China, But nobody knows.” also strain China’s armed forces and he said, killing troops waiting to cross invite international intervention, the at the shoreline and knocking out ports U.S. Secretary of Defense’s office and air bases. told Congress in a report on China last year. The report described a large-scale He adds that a Chinese invasion would amphibious invasion as a “significant never come as a surprise. “It takes political and military risk.” months to build up before an attack,” he said. Taiwan would see China moving On paper, China’s military looks like thousands of troops to the coast several www.mwa.tibet.net it should be able to crush Taiwan. The months in advance, and it would be able Chinese military budget was an estimated to prepare accordingly.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 29 WORLD PRESS

China closes Tibet to foreigners for sensitive anniversaries By Christopher Bodeen,Washington Post

BEIJING — China is barring foreign travelers from Tibet over a period of several weeks that includes a pair of sensitive political anniversaries questioning the legitimacy of Beijing’s rule over the Himalayan region.

Travel agencies contacted Wednesday said foreign tourists would not be allowed back into Tibet until April 1. It’s not clear when the ban started, although some monitoring groups said it began this month.

The ban was confirmed by the online customer service portal of the Tibet Youth International Travel Service, as the government says rioters killed 18 the year before, generating 37.9 billion well as staff at the Tibet Vista and Go people. yuan ($5.6 billion) in tourist revenue, to Tibet travel agencies. Both are based according to the official Xinhua News in the southwestern city of — An unknown number of Tibetans were Agency. the main jumping-off point for visits to killed by security forces in the aftermath. Tibet. Numbers of visits rose again last year China claims Tibet has been part of its to more than 33 million, a rise of 31.5 Staff members declined to give their territory for more than seven centuries percent, Xinhua said. names or offer details. and regards the Dalai Lama as a dangerous separatist. While Chinese may travel to Tibet at March 10 is the 60th anniversary of an will, foreigners are required to obtain abortive 1959 uprising against Chinese Many Tibetans insist they were a special permit in addition to their rule in Tibet, while anti-government essentially independent for most of that Chinese visas. riots occurred March 14, 2008, in the time and have protested what they regard regional capital Lhasa. as China’s heavy-handed rule imposed While China has at times denied closing after the People’s Liberation Army’s Tibet and never offered an explanation Although the foreigner travel ban is battled its way into the Himalayan for any such measures, monitoring an annual occurrence, the occasion of region in 1950. groups say it’s part of a strategy of the 60th anniversary is drawing added concealing the extent of repression in attention. More recently, traditionally Tibetan the region. regions of western China have been Amid heavy security on the ground, racked by a series of self-immolations “This most recent development is part Tibet is almost entirely closed to by Buddhist clergy and lay people of the overall policy of the Chinese foreign journalists and diplomats and protesting Chinese rule and calling for government to restrict access to Tibet information about actual conditions the return of the Dalai Lama, now aged for independent observers in order to there is difficult to obtain. 83. maintain an iron grip in the region while at the same time avoiding any form of The 1959 uprising resulted in the flight Despite the suffocating level of security, external scrutiny,” Washington, D.C.- of Tibet’s traditional Buddhist leader, Tibet is an increasingly popular based International Campaign for Tibet the Dalai Lama, into exile in India and destination for tourists looking for said in an emailed statement. the beginning of increasingly harsh mountain adventure and monuments to Chinese rule over the region. Nearly its unique Buddhist culture. five decades later, anger exploded ina For detailed news visit: series of protests in an around Lhasa In 2017, more than 25 million trips that culminated in attacks on Chinese from around the world were made to www.tibet.net individuals and businesses in which Tibet, an increase of 10.6 percent over

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QUOTES

“I am nearing the age of when the first Dalai Lama Gendun Drup passed away. In order to live long and healthy, I must now recline from public teachings and engagements and get more rest instead. Don’t you agree?” during long life prayers to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on 27 February 2019

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“Despite facing through a challenging period, we have successfully drawn admiration and recognition for the unique culture and religion of Tibet. This is chiefly due to the valour, courage and indomitable spirit demonstrated by Tibetans inside Tibet and the unity observed by all the Tibetans worldwide”. His Holiness the Dalai Lama during meeting a group of elderly Tibetans aged over 90, on 4 February 2019

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“This year marks the 60 years of Tibetans taking in exile in India and also the 60th anniversary of Tibet’s brutal occupation by the Chinese communist forces. However, due to the visionary leadership of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the indomitable spirit of the Tibetan brothers and sisters inside Tibet, the Tibetan freedom movement has sustained and persisted; the continues to move forward as people at par with rest of the world”President Dr Lobsang Sangay Greetings on Tibetan New Year on 5 February 2019

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“Most importantly I urge everyone participating in the Tibetan movement to heed the noble advice and guidance of our spiritual leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama and unite all our efforts for the peaceful resolution of Tibet issue” Speaker Pema Jugney Greeting on Tibetan New Year on 5 February 2019

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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