TIBETAN BulletiN The Official Journal of the Central Tibetan Administration

Volume 23 - Issue 6 NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 Focus

14th Tibetan Religious Conference affirms the ’s sole authority in his reincarnation, illegitimizes China’s meddling in religious affairs

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Feature

Urge your members of Congress and Senate to co-sponsor the Tibetan Policy Act 2019: appeals Tibetans in US

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World Press

Interview: Beijing should respect human rights of Tibetans and democracy in Hong Kong, says exiled leader

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

TIBETAN Focus BulletiN 17 As the 1990s era of people’s resistance returns, Tibet will be at Tibetan Bulletin is an official bi-monthly forefront once again: Sikyong at the 8th International TSG conference journal of the Central Tibetan Administration. 20 His Holiness the Dalai Lama graces the 14th Tibetan Religious Conference

22 14th Tibetan Religious Conference affirms the Dalai Lama’s sole authority in his reincarnation, illegitimizes China’s meddling in religious affairs

23 US hits back at China for protesting US Envoy’s meeting with the Signed articles or quotations do not Dalai Lama; Praises India’s “Extraordinary Generosity” necessarily reflect the views of the Central Tibetan Administration. 24 34 Chinese scholars, democratic leaders issue joint statement rejecting Chinese government’s claims in the Dalai Lama’s Contributions are welcome and may be reincarnation addressed to the editor, Tibetan Bulletin. However the publisher regrets its inability to return unused articles unless they are Feature accompanied by a self-addressed envelope with adequate postage. 25 Urge your members of Congress and Senate to co-sponsor the Tibetan Policy Act 2019: Sikyong appeals Tibetans in US Tibetan Bulletin is distributed free of charge. To subscribe please email the circulation manager or see back cover. 26 Tibetan Policy and Support Act passes through US House Foreign Affairs Committee with strong bipartisan support Editor Tenzin Saldon 27 Sikyong garners support for Tibet Policy Act 2019 at both Congress Email: [email protected] and Senate Asst. Editor 28 Canadian MPP urges the Parliament to support the restoration of Tenzin Phende peace and human rights in Tibet Layout & Design Tenzin Phende

World Press Circulation Manager Norbu Wangdue 29 Interview: Beijing should respect human rights of Tibetans and Email: [email protected] democracy in Hong Kong, says exiled leader Lobsang Sangay Tibetan Bulletin is published by: Department of Information and By Shri Ram Shaw, Hong Kong Free Press International Relations, Central Tibetan Administration, - 176 215 H.P. India Tel: +91-1892-222510 / 222457

Vol. 23, Issue 6 Regulars NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 News From Tibet & Exile ...... 4 Contact ...... 31 Quotes ...... 32 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE A Tibetan youth in on communication over the phone and surveillance technologies monitoring the internet. residents, the Chinese police, “disguised Ngaba dies after as businessmen, beggars and ordinary setting himself on Over the years, the Chinese government people,” are making rounds to spy on has implemented a total crackdown the local Tibetans. fire to protest against on Tibetan self-immolation protests, labelling the protests as an “act of Due to the proximity of Dza Wonpo Chinese rule terrorism” and criminalizing family Monastery and the town-level members of the self-immolators who authorities’ location, the intensified were reprimanded with arrests and heavy security measures in the area have sentences. Yonten’s self-immolation affected the daily routines and livelihood protest is the first one recorded this year. of the Tibetans in the region. There are several towns under Dza Mey township China crackdowns namely: Wonpo, Trom-Dza, Arig-Dza, Washul, Troshul Upper (Tib: Gongma) on Tibetans in and Troshul Lower (Tib: Ghapma). Sershul, Karze after Chinese Policy and the Degrading Independence protests Nomadic Lives of Local Tibetans. File photo of Yonten/Courtesy of Kanyag Tsering and Lobsang Yeshi A large number of Chinese forces have A young Tibetan nomad from the nearby arrived in Dza Wonpo town, Sershul nomadic township of Meruma in Ngaba county in Tibet’s Karze (Ch: Ganzi (Ch: Aba) county in Tibet’s traditional Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture) in province of Amdo died on 26 November the aftermath of the recent protests last after setting himself on fire to protest week. Scores of security forces from Chinese rule of Tibet and its hardline Sershul county arrived in a large convoy policies against the Tibetans. and have swarmed the streets of the township of Dza Mey (lower Dzachukha Yonten, aged around 24, set himself area). The armed security forces are ablaze in the center of town nearby patrolling the area that is now under Meruma at around 4 pm local time on constant and heightened surveillance. 26 November 2019. He is identified as son of Sodhon (father) and Tsekho Kyi Last week, on 21 November, two (mother), residents of Meruma’s Unit 2. Tibetan youngsters, Choegyal and Yonten staged a protest in Dza Wonpo According to a reliable source, Yonten town calling for independence, human became a monk and joined Ngaba rights and freedom while they scattered Kirti Monastery at a young age but he hundreds of leaflets with message of later disrobed for reasons unidentified. Tibet’s independence in front of the local In recent years, several reports were government office and police station in An undated image of Dza Wonpo town, Sershul received of Chinese authorities in Tibet the area. “The two were immediately county in Tibet’s Karze (Ch: Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture). forcing young Tibetan monks out of arrested and detained during which they their monasteries, at times ordering were severely beaten by police for two The Tibetans in Dzachukha’s Wonpo them to join Communist schools. After days before they were taken to Sershul town has traditionally led a nomadic leaving his monastery, Yonten then led a county on 23 November,” said our livelihood. Each of its 1500-2000 life of a nomad in the area. source citing contacts in the region. households owned and reared large number of livestock, including yak, Ngaba is a heavily-monitored Tibetan Following the recent pro-independence sheep, horses, etc. for their daily needs. region with intense surveillance demonstrations in Karze’s Dza Wonpo, However, the Chinese government’s measures implemented regularly where which resulted in the arbitrary arrests of policy of “resettling” or “relocating” police can reach a protest site within a eight Tibetans, the Chinese authorities the Tibetan nomads which continue to few steps or minutes, stated our source. have put the Dza Mey area, including date have had a massive adverse impact Currently, details on whether Yonten’s Dza Wonpo town, under severe on their livelihood. “In the last decade, body was returned to his parents and restrictions and surveillance to keep a almost complete disappearance of the extent of restrictions following the close watch on the activities of the local sheep is seen while the number of other self-immolation protest in the area is not residents, shared our source. In addition livestock has decreased dramatically,” known at the moment due to clampdown to the multiple CC cameras and other stated the source.

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 3 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE The Chinese authorities claim of Six Tibetan Monks and Two Youth Arrested investments and development in the region and that they gave houses and for Pro-independence Leaflets in Dza Wonpo, subsidies to the “resettled” nomads but Sershul, Tibet in reality, most of these benefits don’t even reach down to the local Tibetans. According to our source, local Chinese authorities order the Tibetans to appear in “good dresses” and borrow things from others that they don’t have as a show. The local authorities will then take photos and videos of these Tibetans to prove how well-off and happy the residents are living because of the Chinese government. The houses allocated to the “relocated” nomads come with their own restrictive conditions such as banning the display of His Holiness the Dalai Lamas portraits and instead Chinese authorities arrested six Tibetan youth from the town totaling the known forced the display of pictures of Chinese monks and two youth from Dza Wonpo arrests of Tibetans in Sershul, Karze to leaders. The local authorities would town in Sershul county, Karze (Ch: eight so far. warn the Tibetans of subsidy benefits cut Ganzi) Prefecture in Tibet’s traditional and even detention if they don’t comply. province after leaflets calling Himachal Pradesh These kinds of practices and policies for Tibet’s independence appeared implemented against the Tibetans in the premises of the local Chinese Governor Bandaru are the main reasons for the tension, government office. The arrests were discontentment and disappointment in made during three different incidents in Dattatreya calls on His the community, leading to these protests November. Holiness the Dalai against Chinese authority. Earlier this month, on 7 November, Lama Prior to the 21 November arrest, two other hundreds of hand-written leaflets H. E. Governor of Himachal Pradesh, incidents of Tibetans monks arrested by calling for Tibet’s independence were Bandaru Dattatreya called on His Chinese authorities were reported: a found in the courtyard of the county’s Holiness the Dalai Lama for an teenage monk from Dza Wonpo Gaden government office. On the same day audience at His Holiness’ residence in Shedrup Monastery called Nyimey, the at night, local authorities came to Dza Dharamshala. younger brother of Choegyal, on 18 Wonpo Gaden Shedrup Monastery November, and Kunsal (20), Tamey, and arrested the four monks Kunsal A messenger of India and student of Soetra and Tsultrim (all three around (20), Tamey, Soetra and Tsultrim (all- Nalanda tradition, as he often refers 18) along with their religious teacher around 18) and their religious teacher to himself, His Holiness the Dalai Shergyam on 7 November after pro- Shergyam, said a source in exile with Lama warmly greeted the Honourable independence leaflets were found in the contacts in the region. Governor and the two engaged in a courtyard of the Chinese government productive discussion mainly over the office. Four of the monks are still arbitrarily relevance of ancient Indian tradition detained in Sershul county while the in promotion of peace of mind and fifth monk, their teacher was held for the potential contributions of Tibetan 11 days before he was released on 18 Buddhist masters and institutions in the November. revival of the tradition. In a separate incident, on 18 November at His Holiness expressed the tremendous around midnight, a sixth monk from the gratitude and respect Tibetans hold for same monastery, identified as Nyimey in India as the source of their spiritual his mid-teen was arrested by local police. culture and their second home. It is believed that Nyimey’s arrest was linked to his expression of support to the It is due to India’s consistent generosity protest on 7 November and criticizing and kindness that the Tibetan people the Chinese policies against the Tibetans have been able to preserve their on the internet. Three days later, Sershul ancient cultural heritage in exile. He authorities arrested two more Tibetans

4 TIBETAN BULLETIN NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE further noted the positive cultural and “My best wishes to civilisational influence the traditions of Nalanda University brought to Tibet all Tibetans”, HP from the eighth century. Governor assures full “The age-old Indian traditions of non- support for Tibetan violent conduct ‘ahimsa’, compassionate motivation ‘karuna’, along with a welfare and education thorough understanding of the workings The [Eng: Cabinet] of of minds and emotions, are not only Central Tibetan Administration led by Members of the Kashag present a traditional relevant but are also necessary in today’s officiating President Kalon Ven Karma Tibetan painting to the Hon Governor world,” His Holiness told the Governor. at the felicitation ceremony, 18 November 2019. Gelek Yuthok, received the Honourable Photo/Tenzin Phende/CTA Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shri His Holiness observed that the ancient Bandaru Dattatreya here at the Kashag tradition would not only benefit the Secretariat. The council of Kalons thoroughly people of India but would contribute to apprised the Honourable Governor on the development of the world as a whole. Officiating President Kalon Ven Karma the CTA’s robust administration and Gelek Yuthok, Kalon Sonam Topgyal governance of more than a lakh Tibetans Khorlatsang, Department of Home, across India, Nepal and Bhutan and the Kalon Karma Yeshi, Department unparalleled support extended by the of Finance, Kalon Phagpa Tsering Government of India and the Himachal Labrang, Department of Security, Kalon Pradesh government towards the Central Choekyong Wangchuk, Department Tibetan Administration and Tibetan of Health, Kashag Secretary Tsegyal people. Chukya Dranyi, Chief Representative of Tibetans in Shimla Tenzin Norbu and The Hon Governor spoke about the Dharamshala Settlement Officer greeted enriching conversations he had with His His Holiness the Dalai Lama and H. E. Governor the Hon Governor as he arrived at the Holiness the Dalai Lama earlier in the of Himachal Pradesh, Bandaru Dattatreya in morning. conversation during the audience at His Holiness’ CTA headquarters. residence, Dharamshala. Photo/OHHDL At the occasion, Kalon Ven Karma The Governor also made keen enquiries These relevant ideas derived from Gelek Yuthok, Department of Religion on the welfare and development of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy, which in and Culture honoured and felicitated the Tibetan communities across India, turn have originated from the Nalanda honourable Governor and his delegates particularly on the major institutions of tradition, combined with modern Tibetan Buddhist study in North and education could serve the wider benefit South India. of humanity. Speaking exclusively to Tibet News Moreover, His Holiness alluded to the Bureau, Honourable Bandaru Dattatreya growing interest in the Tibetan Buddhist expressed his best wishes to Tibetans all philosophy and logic from the West, over India and assured them full support particularly scientists and educationists in “improvement of lives, education, and as signs of positive hope that “India all other necessary support”. can make a significant contribution Honourable Governor of Himachal Pradesh, regarding peace of mind for the whole Shri Bandaru Dattatreya in conversation with “Tibetans are very entrepreneur people. humanity.” the Kalons during the official felicitation by the Tibetans are particularly in good Kashag at the Kashag Secretariat, 18 November numbers in Himachal Pradesh. We will 2019. Photo/Tenzin Phende/CTA His Holiness also extended his profound definitely do the best in supporting the gratitude to the government and people comprising of Shri Raju, HPS, ADC to improvement, education and all the of India for hosting the Tibetan people Governor, Sri Sarath Babu, relative of necessary assistance that is required,” with warmth and generous hospitality. Hon Governor, Shri Des Raj Bhatia, the Hon Governor said. Comptroller to Governor, Sri Jayant Sharma, Press Secretary to Governor, Governor Dattatreya will be visiting the Shri Dalip Kumar, PSO and few others Tibetan Parliamentary Secretariat and from the Shimla government. meet the Speaker and Deputy Speaker.

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 5 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE Dharamshala Hill-Development Council and his “After Ladakh becoming a union entourage, Shri Ajay Singh, President territory we assure you that relations celebrates the iconic of Indo Tibetan Friendship Association, between Ladakhis and Tibetans will 1989 Nobel Peace Prize Kalons and other dignitaries. strengthen further as we have always shared a good relationship with the Conferment to His Extolling His Holiness’ humanitarian Tibetans in Ladakh. We hope that service, Chief Guest Gyal P Wangyal Ladakh under the leadership of PM Modi Holiness the Dalai said, “His Holiness the Dalai Lama has can fulfill the aspiration of Tibetans in Lama not only guided the humanity of this the coming years. We assure you that universe to the path of non-violence Tibetans in Ladakh are well taken care and peace but has also transformed the of” he assured. nature of the Tibetan freedom movement into a complete non-violent endeavour.” Sikyong condoles “Mere touch and blessing of His Holiness demise of world- give us precious inspiration in the hope renowned Tibetan for a better life. His compassionate smile radiates the warmth that pacifies all fear” medicine expert Dr noted the Chief Executive Councillor in Heads of three pillars of Tibetan democracy in his address. Yeshi Dhonden exile escorting Chief Guest Gyal P Wangyal to the venue. Photo/Tenzin Paljor/TPiE The Chief Guest observed that the Thirty years ago in 1989, Tibetans’ most initiative taken by His Holiness in beloved spiritual leader His Holiness interacting Buddhism with Science is the Dalai Lama whose name today is inspirational in advancing global peace associated with different epithets like and happiness where the knowledge of the man of peace and champion of both can be combined to reduce conflict compassion was conferred the Noble and violence borne out of destructive Peace Prize for his truth and non-violent emotions. approach to China’s oppression of Tibet. A file photo of Dr Yeshi Dhonden receiving an In his reverence to His Holiness, audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Tibetans around the globe broke into a Shri Gyal P Wangyal extended the frenzied celebration after learning that President Dr Lobsang Sangay of Central their precious leader was named the Tibetan Administration expressed 1989 winner of the Nobel Peace Prize profound grief over the demise of world- and the day earned a significance in the renowned Tibetan doctor and former calendar for the Tibetan people. physician to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Dr Yeshi Dhonden, who breathed 10 December marks the 30th anniversary his last at his residence in Mcleodganj at of the iconic 1989 conferment of 2:53 AM. Nobel Peace Prize to His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetans in exile Chief Guest, Mr. Gyal P Wangyal Chief Executive “Profoundly sad to learn about the demise celebrated the occasion in full swing. Councillor of Ladakh Autonomous Hill- of globally known Tibetan medicine Development Council, Leh presents Sikyong Dr. expert and Padma Shree awardee Dr Lobsang Sangay with Friendship Award. Photo/ Yeshi Dhonden,” the President said in Amidst the laughter and cheer Tenzin Paljor/TPiE echoing throughout the courtyard of his condolence message. Tsuglagkhang in Dharamshala where unwavering friendship and support the residence of His Holiness is seated, to the Tibetan people and meanwhile “May he be reborn soon and continue the heads of three pillars of Tibetan requested the Ladakhis to emulate the to serve humanity. I had the privilege of democracy and a host of esteemed teachings of His Holiness into practice. meeting him on several occasions. Dr guests opened the day-long celebration Dhonden’s contribution to expanding with key-note speakers resonating His “We are aware of the gross human rights the reach of Tibetan medicine and Holiness the Dalai Lama’s message of violations in Tibet to which people of extending its benefits to thousands will peace and non-violence. Ladakh have always condemned and be long remembered.” will keep on condemning,” said Shri Some of the esteemed guests include Gyal P Wangyal. The Sikyong-led Kashag also expressed the Chief Executive Councillor Shri condolences on the passing away of Gyal P Wangyal of Ladakh Autonomous Dr Dhonden and paid earnest tribute to

6 TIBETAN BULLETIN NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE his meaningful service to the Tibetan Team Tibet at COP25 highlights Tibet’s community and the world at large. The Kashag offered prayers for his swift and Ecological Importance noble rebirth.

Dr Yeshi Dhonden, 93, was the foremost Tibetan doctor around the world who was widely respected and recognised for his effectual treatment of cancer patients.

Dr Yeshi Dhonden was born on 15 May 1927 to a peasants family in the village of Namro in central Tibet’s Lhoga District. He entered monastic life when he was six years old and, from the age of 12, studied at Men Tsee Khang under, among other teachers, his uncle the famous Tibetan doctor and teacher Khenrab Norbu, passing his exams with distinction at the age of 20. Tibet Team at COP25, Madrid, Spain. In 1959, Dr Yeshi Dhonden accompanied His Holiness the Dalai Lama when he fled A strong Team of Tibetan delegates the Chinese invasion of Tibet. In India, highlights Tibet’s Ecological Importance Another team of Tibetans and Tibetan Dr Yeshi Dhonden was instrumental at the COP25 UN Climate Summit, held supporters led by Venerable Thupten in the founding of the Tibetan Medical in Madrid, Spain. Wangchen of Casa del Tibet, Spain with and Astro-science Institute (Men-Tsee efficient support from Chokhorling and Khang) in Dharamsala. From 1960–80, A team of Tibetans and Tibetan Thupten Dhargyeling made a strong while he served as personal physician supporters have come together at the presence at the Green Zone or the to the Dalai Lama, he also held office ongoing COP25 Climate Summit in civil society venue of the Conference, as both director and principal of Men- Madrid. The mega climate conference attracting huge attention and interest Tsee Khang until 1979. He continued to organised by the United Nations has from the participants and media groups. practice medicine from a small private attracted more than 20,000 experts, clinic he established in Dharamsala in climate and environmental activists, The ‘Team Tibet’ also took part in the 1969 until his retirement earlier this government delegates and civil society Climate Strike, led by inspirational year. groups. teenager Greta Thunberg on 6th December. The team had another highly On 20 March 2018, the President of India, The ‘Team Tibet’ had made a highly visible presence despite the massive Ram Nath Kovind, conferred the Padma visible presence both at the official and crowd, carrying Tibetan flags and Shri of Medicine to Dr Dhonden at the civil society venue of the UNFCCC. Posters with short messages. Rashtrapati Bhavan for his contributions The two environment researchers in the field of medicine through Sowa from the Tibet Policy Institute, Tempa A poster messages from His Holiness the Rigpa, the traditional Tibetan medicine. Gyaltsen Zamlha and Dechen Palmo, Dalai Lama read “Climate change is not Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian leading the ‘Team Tibet’ has been able the concern of just one or two nations. It award in India. Dr Dhonden officially to meet official delegates from more is an issue that affects all humanity and retired from medical practise on 1 April than 25 countries so far, to personally every living being on this earth.” 2019 due to advancing age and health apprise them of Tibet’s global ecological reasons. Importance and urged the delegates to On 7th December, the ‘2nd Climate make Tibet central to any discussion Action for Tibet’ panel Discussion will on global climate change. Also present be held at the famous Ateneo de Madrid at the official venue of the conference, hall to highlight Tibet’s ecological Kyingzom Dhongdue of Australia importance and current environmental Tibet Council and Kai Muller of ICT situation. The Panel Discussion is Germany have been able to raise Tibet’s organized by the Tibet Policy Institute environmental issues with different and the Casa del Tibet, Spain. delegates.

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 7 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councilors conclude official visit to CTA headquarters Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamshala.

The secretaries and senior officials of the respective CTA departments gave presentations on the organisational structure and programs of the department which was followed by a fruitful discussion.

During their visit to the Department of Home on 9 December, Secretary Mrs Tsewang Dolma Shosur and Additional Secretary Mr Dawa Tsultrim made an urgent appeal to the Chief Executive Councilor Shri Gyal P Wangyal and other councillors in order to reiterate the The delegation of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council led by Chief Executive Councilor Shri welfare of Tibetan residents in Ladakh. Gyal P Wangyal during an audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Home Secretary Tsewang Dolma Hon. Chief Executive Councilor assured and Chief Representative of Tibetans in Ladakh Tsetan Wangchuk is also seen among them. Photo/OHHDL to look into the matter. Chief Executive Councilor of Ladakh to the CTA headquarters in Dharamsala Autonomous Hill Development Council on 12 December. The following evening, President Dr Shri. Gyal P Wangyal and his entourage Lobsang Sangay of Central Tibetan of Deputy Chairman Shri. Tsering The visit of the LAHDC members to Administration hosted a Gala reception Samdup and Shri. Phuntsok Stanzin, Dharamshala from 6 to 11 December was in honour of the visiting delegation of Executive Councilor, Agriculture, organised by the Department of Home, the LAHDC at the Tibetan Institute of Shri. Konchok Stanzin, Executive Central Tibetan Administration and Performing Arts (TIPA). Councilor, Education, Shri. Tsering facilitated by the Chief Representative Morup, Councilor from Temisgam, Office, Ladakh. Shri. Tsering Palden, Councilor from Igoo, Shri. Tsering Angchuk, Councilor The purpose of their visit was to from Diskit, Shri. Thupstan Wangchuk, understand and learn about various Councilor from Nyoma, Shri. Tsering programs of the CTA and gain an insight Wangdue, Councilor from Saspol into how the Tibetan community is accompanied by Mr Tsetan Wangchuk, thriving in exile under the leadership of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and CTA. The main highlight of their weeklong visit was the audience with His Holiness The delegation of Ladakh Autonomous Hill the great on 7 December Development Council led by Chief Executive during which His Holiness consented to Councilor Shri Gyal P Wangyal at CTA visit Ladakh in summer next year. headquarters.

Later that day, the Department of Home The delegates were treated to a (CTA) hosted a welcome dinner in wide range of performances by the honour of the visiting delegation. Tibetan performing arts representing the distinguished cultural, social CTA President Dr Lobsang Sangay and Kashag During the course of their visit, and spiritual aspects of the Tibetan host a welcome reception for the delegation of civilization. Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council the delegation visited the Kashag led by Chief Executive Councilor Shri Gyal P Secretariat, Tibetan Parliamentary Wangyal. Secretariat, all the other Departments of Chief Executive Councilor Shri. Gyal P CTA, Tibetan Children Village, Library Wangyal and other LAHDC councillors Chief Representative Officer, Ladakh of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA), also attended the official function Sonamling Tibetan Settlement Men-Tse-Khang, Institute, marking 30th anniversary of the iconic successfully concluded their official visit Gyutoe Monastery and also Himachal 1989 conferment of Nobel Peace Prize

8 TIBETAN BULLETIN NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 NEWS FROM TIBET & EXILE to His Holiness the Dalai Lama as His Holiness the Dalai Lama praises the the Chief Guest on 10 December at Tsuklakhang. leadership of CTA, consecrates renovated headquarter of CTA Admiring His Holiness’ humanitarian service, Chief Guest Gyal P Wangyal said, “His Holiness the Dalai Lama has not only transformed the nature of the Tibetan freedom movement into a complete non-violent endeavour but also guided the humanity to the path of non- violence and peace.” In his reverence to His Holiness, Shri Gyal P Wangyal extended the unwavering friendship and support to the Tibetan people and meanwhile requested the Ladakhis to emulate the teachings of His Holiness into practice.

Home Kalon Mr Sonam Topgyal Khorlatsang who reached Dharamshala on the morning of 11 December, from his major tour to the five Tibetan settlements in South India, immediately arranged for a panel discussion with Hon. Chief His Holiness the Dalai Lama, flanked by Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay performs consecration of the newly Executive Councilor of LAHC along built and renovated buildings of CTA headquarters. Photo/Tenzin Jigme/CTA with other councillors to discuss the urgent concerns relating to the welfare His Holiness the Dalai Lama presided built and renovated office buildings of the Tibetans in Ladakh and earnestly over the valedictory session of the 14th and the upcoming well-equipped Tibet appealed to the Councillors to address Tibetan Religious Conference as the Museum among others. these concerns in priority. key-honoured guest. Commending the leadership of the On such productive note, the LAHDC On his arrival at Gangchen Kyishong Central Tibetan Administration, His delegations concluded their weeklong where lies the seat of the Central Tibetan Holness said, “So many buildings have official visit to CTA on 12 December. Administration, His Holiness expressed come up that it is unrecognisable. Very his fascination with the infrastructural good changes have taken place. Good developments that had taken place at job!” At Sikyong’s request, His Holiness For detailed news visit: the CTA headquarters as he was being blessed and consecrated the newly built led by Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay who and renovated headquarter of CTA www.tibet.net described the arrangements of the newly before leaving for his residence.

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 9 DOCUMENTATION

Statement of the Kashag on the 30th Anniversary of the Conferment of the Nobel Peace Prize on His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet

Thirty years ago, today, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama was awarded the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of His unwavering commitment to peacefully restore freedom for Tibetans in Tibet. As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the conferment of the Nobel Peace Prize, the 15th Kashag of the Central Tibetan Administration bows down in deep reverence and gratitude to our most revered leader His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet. On this occasion, the Kashag offers its greetings to the Tibetan people inside and outside Tibet, guests and dignitaries in attendance, and supporters of Tibet around the world. President Dr Lobsang Sangay presents Kashag’s statement on the 30th Anniversary of Nobel Peace Prize His Holiness has steadily undertaken on His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. the commitment to emphasize the Tibetans in Tibet continue to protest monk, was forcefully arrested from importance of inculcating compassion, against the Chinese government’s his room at the Kirti monastery for tolerance, and kindness to achieve repressive policies. On 26th November, unknown reasons and has not been heard peace and harmony among all human a 24-year-old Tibetan named Yonten since. Earlier this month, six Tibetan beings. While stressing the importance self-immolated in Ngaba, eastern Tibet. monks from Shedrup Monastery in of religious harmony, He has advocated Since 2009, 154 Tibetans have self- Sershul, Kham, were arrested for their dialogue as a means to resolve any immolated in Tibet calling for freedom protest against China’s rule over Tibet. conflict. Even in the face of persecution, for Tibetans and the return of His Three days later, two Tibetan young His Holiness has led the world with Holiness the Dalai Lama. men in their early twenties, Yonten and examples through his undeterred Choegyal, were arrested for their roles in efforts to resolve the issue of Tibet non- The Chinese government has further a similar protest. violently. resorted to drastic restriction instead of earnestly addressing the plights of Such ongoing repression of Tibetan As one of the world’s most beloved the Tibetan people. In 2018, China’s people is highlighted in the reports of the leader and a Nobel laureate, His Public Security Bureau issued a circular United Nations Human Right Council, Holiness’ timeless initiatives for the listing 22 illegal activities making and numerous resolutions from the creation of a more peaceful world has, local initiatives for environmental European Union to the United States. For in turn, highlighted and garnered support protection, language preservation, and the past consecutive years, the Freedom for the Tibet cause globally. any expression of support for the Middle House report has placed Tibet after Syria Way Approach as an organized crime. as the second- least free country. Today also marks Human Rights Day Since 2008 Tibetans have been facing and the 71st anniversary of the Universal severe restrictions on their freedom of During the recently held 119th session Declaration of Human Rights. However, movement both within and outside of of the United Nations Working Group on today in Tibet, the fundamental human Tibet. Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance, rights enshrined in this landmark China responded to the experts’ question document are trampled upon by the Recently, Lobsang Dorje, a 36-year- on whereabouts of the 11th Panchen Chinese Communist Party. Tibetans are old monk from Kirti Monastery, was Lama and his family China responded subjected to harsh treatment for speaking sentenced to three years imprisonment with the usual practice of unverifiable up for their rights, which are also after being held incommunicado in and insufficient information. China must enshrined in the Chinese constitution, detention for more than a year on release the Panchen Lama and his family such as freedom of religion, language, suspicion of communicating with the together with Chadrel Rinpoche and all and preservation of the environment. international community. In another the other political prisoners. case, Sonam Palden, a 22-year-old

10 TIBETAN BULLETIN NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 DOCUMENTATION

As far back as 1969, His Holiness has the Tibetan people, the Dalai Lama and meritorious acts for the accumulation expressed that whether the institution that the role of picking a successor to of our collective good karma. We must of the Dalai Lama will continue or not the Dalai Lama belongs to the Tibetan all remember and work towards the must be decided by the Tibetan people. Buddhist system, the Dalai Lama and fulfillment of His Holiness’ principal The resolutions of the recently held 3rd other Tibetan Buddhist leaders. It does commitments and work towards our Special General Meeting and the 14th not belong to anybody else, not any cause in unity. We will renew our efforts Tibetan Religious conference held in government or any entity.” towards the same through various October and November consecutively initiatives throughout the gratitude year. expressed the genuine wish of the His Holiness’s untiring efforts for the Taking this opportunity, we thank the Tibetan people for the continuation past 60 years have come to fruition kindness of India and its people and of the institution of the Dalai Lama. It with the successful establishment also remember the nations, leaders and also strongly stated that His Holiness of the Tibetan community in exile, supporters of the Tibet cause around the Dalai Lama is the sole authority introduction of a democratic system the world for their unwavering effort to concerning the manner of reincarnation. of administration, revival of Tibetan restore peace and freedom in Tibet. language, religion and culture, provision The aspiration of the Tibetan people of modern education to Tibetan children Finally, we ceaselessly pray for the long made clear in the resolution was voiced and advancement of the Tibet cause life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. by the US Ambassador at large for the in the global arena. In recognition of May all his holy wishes be fulfilled. May International Religious Freedom, Samuel His Holiness’s accomplishments and the non-violent cause of Tibet prevail. Dale Brownback, during his formal sacrifices, the year 2020 will be observed visit to the headquarters of the Central as the “Thank You, Dalai Lama” year. The Kashag Tibetan Administration in October 2019. The Ambassador expressed that In observation of our gratitude to His December 10, 2019 “the United States government supports Holiness, we must further indulge in

US wants UN to take up Dalai Lama succession issue: US envoy for International Religious Freedom The Ambassador had told the Dalai at the invitation of the CTA President Lama that the US would seek to build Dr Lobsang Sangay in what was seen as global support for the principle that the the strongest political gesture of support choice of the next Dalai Lama “belongs for the Tibetan people and their religious to the Tibetan Buddhists and not the freedom. Chinese government”. Alice Wells, Acting Assistant Secretary “That’s the big thing that we’re really of State, Bureau of South and Central after now, to stir this before we’re right Asia, had said the Ambassador’s meeting The United States wants the United in the middle of it. If something happens with His Holiness in Dharamsala Nations to take up the Dalai Lama’s to the Dalai Lama, that there has been emphasized enduring U.S. support for succession in an intensifying bid to stop this robust discussion globally about it the Tibetan people. China from making its meritless claims ahead of time.” over the religious succession, the US The Ambassador for Religious Freedom Ambassador-at-large for International “I would hope that the UN would take also made clear in his statement here at Religious Freedom Sam Brownback the issue up,” he told AFP, adding that Dharamshala that the US stance on the told AFP. China with its veto power on the Security reincarnation of the Dalai Lama is in Council would block any action, but accordance with the resolutions passed “I think it’s really important to have an countries could at least raise their voices at the third Special General meeting of early global conversation because this is at the United Nations. Tibetan people. a global figure with a global impact,” he said referring to the Dalai Lama. “So they’ve [Chinese Communist Party] Amb Brownback is one of the highest got a plan and I think we have to be US officials to have led an official visit Ambassador Brownback had spoken at equally aggressive with a plan.” to the CTA. length about the succession issue with Late October, the US Ambassador His Holiness the Dalai Lama during For detailed news visit: their meeting in October. at Large for International Religious Freedom visited the headquarters of www.tibet.net Central Tibetan Administration [CTA]

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 11 DOCUMENTATION Statement of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile on the occasion of 30th anniversary of the conferment of the Nobel Peace Prize on His Holiness the Dalai Lama

continues unabated. In particular, in these particularly great turbulent days and age of our degenerate era on this vast world, His Holiness has, through efforts at keeping up without decline the fine culture of the religiously immersed Tibet with the aspiration to convert in future this Land of Snows, the roof of the world, into a zone of peace. It is with this profound desire that His Holiness the Dalai Lama has set the course of the Tibetan people on the path of non- violence and peace.

In particular, all people with discerning intellectual faculty have expressed admiration for the nobility of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s great, mutually beneficial middle way Speaker Pema Jungney, Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile presents the statement of Tibetan Parliament-in- proposal for the resolution or the issue Exile on the 30th Anniversary of Nobel Peace Prize on His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. of Tibet. It has won him nothing less We are gathered here today to Nobel Peace Prize. To the Tibetan than the Nobel Peace Prize which he commemorate the 30th anniversary people in general and, in particular, delightedly accepted for the sake of the of the momentous occasion of the to the people across the world who sentient beings’ wellbeing. For such conferment of the globally distinguished cherish democracy, freedom, peace, and and numerous other secret deeds of Nobel Peace Prize on His Holiness compassion, it was a perfect moment body, speech and mind of unimaginable the Dalai Lama, the master of all the to exalt the incomparable deeds of magnitude, which he has carried out and teachings on this earth of the Buddha, His Holiness the Dalai Lama with joy, continues to do so even today as I speak, the lotus-holding manifestation of devotion and elation and to thereby bask I offer His Holiness profound gratitude the supreme Bodhisattva who is the in the joyousness of the supremacy of repeated a hundred times. head ornament of samsara and nirvana the ten virtues underlying them. including the domain of the gods, the Likewise, today is also an important wellspring of affection who bestows With the nobility of kindness borne of the day marking the International Human mother-like fondness to all sentient pristineness of the ideal and mannerism Rights Day. In connection with this beings even without any sort of previous drawn from the incomparable Buddha, occasion, I wish to point out that on acquaintanceship, a champion of world His Holiness the Dalai Lama has the 1st of October this year, the 70th peace, the destined patron-deity of the employed the potential and power of anniversary of the founding of the so- Snowland of Tibet and its saviour for all compassion – which is the essence of called People’s Republic of China was lifetimes, and its unsurpassable leader the condition underlying all sentient observed. In the run up to the marking and guiding light. On this glorious beings’ desire to live a happy life and of this anniversary, China, in September, occasion, I, on behalf of all the Tibetan their aversion to pain and suffering – to issued what it called a white paper on people in Tibet and in exile, offer address their concerns. On that basis, “Seeking Happiness for People: 70 greetings and express the gratitude of His Holiness has sought to enhance the Years of Progress on Human Rights in infinite magnitude to His Holiness the inherent ethical nature of human beings China” in the name of the State Council Dalai Lama with countless joy, devotion as a means to strive for the protection Information Office. The white paper and elation. of the natural environment, harmony made claims about progress having been among different religious traditions, for introduced in the human rights situation It was 30 years ago, on the International the resolution of situations of war and in the People’s Republic of China under Human Rights Day of 10th of December dispute and so on across the world with a its successive topmost leaders during the in 1989 that His Holiness the Dalai sense of universal responsibility for the past seventy years. Nevertheless, every Lama was presented with the world’s goal of ensuring global peace. His work year China has so far taken a front row most distinguished peace award, the of unimaginable depth and expanse seat among countries across the world

12 TIBETAN BULLETIN NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 DOCUMENTATION with the worst record of upholding the the government of China to talk about install television sets and force the human rights of its people. This by itself having made efforts towards achieving monks and nuns to watch and listen to makes it clear that China’s claim about progress in ensuring respect for human its propaganda that praise its policies as its progress in the field of human rights rights and its claims were devoid of any perfect and excellent. This deliberately is patently false. basis in substantive reality. obstructive purpose has been designed to divert the attention of the religiously The so-called white paper made claims The white paper made claims about devout Tibetan monks from their about China having granted Regional regional leaders in Tibet having steadfast pursuits of spiritual listening, Autonomy for ethnic Minorities. To the emerged from the ranks of ordinary thinking, and meditating and from people of Tibet, however, these have masses of people in the region. The their three trainings of self-discipline, been nothing but years of horrendous reality remains, however, that over the rapturous awareness, and sharpening of repression marked by 70 years of last 60 years, 99 per cent of the top critical acumen through learning as part territorial aggression and 60 years of leaders of the counties, higher level of their spiritual training and practice. deprivation of sovereign territory, with offices and of cites in Tibet have been Not only are all aspects of monastic nothing good remaining to be said. The communist party members of Chinese learning and practices thoroughly truth is that ever since the emergence of ethnicity. Besides, there have been a disrupted but even the daily routines human civilizations, Tibet and China had total of 14 party general secretaries of of the monks and nuns, including in co-existed as neighbouring countries. the so-called Autonomous Region of terms of traveling, staying and doing During the periods of Tibet’s Tsenpo Tibet established by China so far and things, are subjected to control. Thus, rulers and some of China’s emperors all of them have been ethnic Chinese the religious freedom of the Tibetan there were incidents of intermarriage communist party members. None has people has been destroyed and they have between the two royal families as well as been Tibetan, giving the lie to China’s even been banned from putting up any wars and settlements of border disputes claim about regional leaders being picture of their root spiritual master, which ended with signing of uncle- from among the ordinary masses of the His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Besides, nephew treaties which were inscribed concerned region. Likewise, the white a coercive precondition has been on pillars of stone and so on. Historical paper also claimed that the linguistic imposed on Tibetan graduates seeking records showing that Tibet and China heritage of the ethnic minorities had any government related employment, were two separate countries are too been given protection. The reality is that requiring them to denigrate their root glaring to be possible for anyone to over the last 60 years, the government spiritual master, His Holiness the Dalai erase it by blacking it out. Nevertheless, of China has split up areas inhabited Lama, before their candidature could be immediately after its founding of the by the Tibetan people to merge them even considered. Examples such as these People’s Republic of China, the army with various Chinese provinces to are numerous. Throughout the period of of its communist-ruled government thereby deny them the opportunity the past 60 years of occupation rule, the launched an invasion of Tibet and to protect their ethnic language and communist Chinese government carried annexed the sovereign territory that script. In fact, even within the so- out a continuous succession of numerous had belonged to its original Tibetan called Autonomous Region of Tibet, campaigns of repression in Tibet in such inhabitants since the beginning of this Tibetan has been given the status only names as democratic reforms, Cultural world. Not only that, the communist of second language. Besides, Mandarin Revolution, Socialist Thought Reform Chinese government continued to Chinese has been made the medium of Education, Education in Patriotism, and launch in Tibet one campaign of mad teaching in the educational institutions, so on. To the Tibetan people in Tibet, and brutal repression after another, such with those having better knowledge of therefore, the past 60 years have been as the Cultural Revolution, over the this language being given better marks nothing but a period which could only years. And it has been obvious that those in examinations and in selection tests, be seen as one of absolute deprivation campaigns were designed to deny the preference in job opportunities, and of human rights and of bondage under Tibetan people their freedom to make being given higher salaries and so on. All the brutal repression of the communist use of their own language and script, and this is done in the name of implementing Chinese government. their culture and traditions. There were a policy of common national language even occasions when the Tibetan people across the People’s Republic of China. But that is not all. The atheist communist were banned from even so much as It has been starkly obvious that under Chinese government, which rejects any moving their lips. It has therefore been this egregious policy, the ethnicity and sort of belief in past and future lives, obvious to everyone everywhere that culture of the Tibetan people have been issued in 2007 Regulations on Tibetan the past decades were a tragic period sought to be systematically obliterated. Buddhism and Rinpoche Reincarnation, of enormous brutality unprecedented in a policy document published as the the history of Tibet with an underlying In particular, China strives to explain State Bureau of Religious Affairs design on the part of communist ruled that there is respect for religious freedom Order No. 5. This action has only made China to obliterate the Tibetan ethnicity. and so on in Tibet under its rule and on the communist Chinese government Given this reality, it was nothing but that basis sends work team of its cadres an object of deprecating laughter by propaganda rhetoric on the part of to the monasteries where they coercively everyone. If it is indeed true, as claimed, NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 13 DOCUMENTATION that the government of China protects the so-called State Bureau of Religious Tibet. This is very obviously inconsistent the reincarnation system of Tibetan Affairs Order No. 5 of 2007 through with its claims about having concern for Buddhism, the 11th Panchen Lama which China sought to implement a set the importance of friendly relations and Gedhun Choekyi Nyima recognized by of Regulations on Tibetan Buddhism stability. Accordingly, it bears pointing His Holiness the Dalai Lama should and Rinpoche Reincarnation. Similar out that the government of China should be seen enthroned on the seat of his kinds of other egregious plots hatched bring an end to these kinds of actions predecessor Panchen Lama. But far by the government of China keeps on and behaviours which are designed only from doing anything like that, the being brought out. The meeting also to cause damage to friendly relations government of China has rendered him passed a unanimous resolution to make and stability that it talks so much about. disappeared along with both his parents. its position on this issue absolutely Likewise, the government of China And the question remains: Why does clear. Besides, from the 27th to the 29th says a great deal about being actively the government of China keep failing of November recently, during the three- engaged in protecting human rights of to provide a clear answer to all queries day 14th Tibetan Religious Conference the citizens of the People’s Republic of on his whereabouts made by the United of the Central Tibetan Administration, it China. If this is indeed the intention, the Nations Human Rights Council? was again reaffirmed that the authority communist Chinese government should, of decision concerning the way and the without being encumbered by any sort of The Communist Chinese government manner in which the reincarnation of the morbid fear, bring to an end the highly has never ceased to denigrate His 14th Dalai Lama should appear solely depressing, brutally repressive policy of Holiness the Dalai Lama, a champion rests with His Holiness the 14th Dalai ethnic genocide that it is still actively of world peace, targeting him as its Lama himself. That no government implementing in Tibet. rival enemy. However, on the other or otherwise will have such authority. hand, it seeks to claim that the power That if the Government of the People’s Throughout the past 60 years of to recognize the reincarnation of His Republic of China for political ends occupation rule, the government of Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama vested chooses a candidate for the Dalai Lama, China has trampled on the basic human in the communist Chinese government. the Tibetan people will not recognize rights of the Tibetan people; moved to This is an unabashed claim arising out and respect that candidate. A special exterminate Tibet’s religion, culture, of utter madness and amounts to a stark three-point resolution outlining these language, and subjected the Tibetan baring of the true face of the communist commitments was adopted at the people to brutally violent repression of Chinese government for its continued meeting. All these moves have been inestimable magnitude. What is more, unrestrained trampling on the freedom made in efforts to protect the wishes of these have remained uninterrupted of religious belief of the Tibetan people. the Tibetan people in Tibet and in exile to this day. It is therefore of utmost From the 3rd to the 5th of October to preserve their right to practice their importance that responsible international this year, the Third Special General freedom of religious belief in keeping organizations and groups such Meeting of the Tibetan People, which with their established Tibetan Buddhist especially as the United Nations, the had representations from all the sections traditions inherited through generation. I United Nations Human Rights Council of the Tibetan people, was held. And all therefore wish to reiterate the point that and others should carry out a result- the participants in that meeting spoke the communist Chinese government, oriented investigation of the current with one voice to fervently pray with which regards religion as poison, can tragic situation in Tibet. The purpose unshakeable devotion that His Holiness have no right whatsoever to interfere should be to ensure that the communist the 14th Dalai Lama, who is like the in the process for the recognition of the Chinese government does not get away eyes on the forehead and the heart in reincarnation of His Holiness the Dalai with its highly reprehensible conduct in the bosom of every Tibetan subject and Lama and will also never be in a position Tibet as if there is nothing wrong with their unsurpassable leader, may live for to do so. it. I accordingly urge the international a hundred aeons; that, at the same time, community to strive in bringing China to He may, for the sake of the Buddhist faith All too frequently the Chinese the level of other progressive nations of and sentient beings, continue to appear government speaks and propagates the world in terms of having the highest in successive reincarnations for as long about the importance of friendly of regards for the human rights of its as sentient beings continue to sustain on relations and stability. Nevertheless, people. the Snowland of Tibet. And the meeting in Tibet it has continued to carry out a reaffirmed that with regard to the relentless policy of uninterrupted violent As I have already stated above, this is reincarnation in future of His Holiness repression. Also, it has continued to a day of outstanding significance and the Dalai Lama, the sole responsibility keep making distorted claims about the in places across the world people are and authority for its determination issue of Tibet, attempted to put up every commemorating this festive occasion resided in His Holiness the Dalai Lama conceivable kind of obstacles by every with the remembrance of His Holiness himself and in the duly empowered possible means whenever any group or the Dalai Lama’s deeds. The absolutely officials of his Gaden Phodrang Trust organizations, but especially the Central best way to repay gratitude to His and no one else. In particular, the Tibetan Administration, carried out any Holiness would be to carry out his wishes meeting expressed resolute opposition to kind of activity related to the issue of with a sincerity of purpose. All Tibetan 14 TIBETAN BULLETIN NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 DOCUMENTATION people should therefore unite as one and To sum up, I would like to express Finally, I pray that His Holiness the Dalai pool together whatever capabilities they heartfelt gratitude to all the governments Lama may live for a hundred aeons that may have as part of their diligent efforts – especially the central government as all his wishes may be seen fulfilled with to achieve the common fundamental well state governments in India – besides spontaneity with the result that peace good. Tibetan people living in free parliaments, prominent personages, may prevail across the world and the countries across the world should take private individuals, and the public just cause of Tibet may be achieved in their democratic duties as fundamental at large across the world who have all speediness. while taking care not to fall into the trap displayed attention, concern, solidarity, of becoming a tool of the other side to and support etc. for the just cause of create disturbances on their behalf and I Tibet. At the same time I urge all of them The Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile take this opportunity to remind everyone to continue their support for Tibet to an accordingly. ever greater extent. 10 December 2019

42 countries pledge 8 Action Plans on Tibet as 8th International TSG concludes The high-level meeting of International The issue of reincarnation was Instead of firmly acting on the side of Tibet Support Groups which convened discussed in-depth by the members and truth and justice, those governments and on 3 November at the CTA headquarters they unanimously concluded that “all a number of corporate actors betray our concluded with a clarion call on decisions regarding the reincarnation of core values of democracy, rule of law, the Chinese government to resume the 14th Dalai Lama are the exclusive self-determination and human rights in the dialogue and engage in earnest responsibility of His Holiness the Dalai pursuit of commercial gain. Similarly, negotiations with representatives of His Lama and his Gaden Phodrang Trust.” they fail to challenge the PRC’s attacks Holiness the Dalai Lama or the CTA on those very values and the institutions without delay among other declarations. “Interference of any form by the that embody them in our own countries. PRC will be deemed illegitimate and We are determined to expose such The conference called all the affiliated further be subjected to sanctions by betrayal of and attacks on our values support groups to consolidate efforts the international community,” they and will forge powerful coalitions and on how to steer the Tibet issue on the said, adding that they fully support the alliances to do so,” voiced the members. forefront in light of the political shifts resolutions passed at the 3rd Special around the world. General Meeting of the Tibetans on the The three-day conference also outlined reincarnation. 8 priority Action Plans along with series The three-day conference demonstrated of recommendations to be effectively deep concern by the TSG members The members solemnly expressed their considered and implemented by over the worsening situation of Tibet solidarity to the struggle of Tibetan governments. under the PRC and the lack of Chinese freedom and also those countries who counterparts in forging a plausible are equally in the struggle for justice, In the view that Tibetan plateau playing dialogue based on the Middle Way freedom, and truth that are being a critical role is now facing the danger Approach with the representatives of blatantly violated under the repressive of climate change which not only poses His Holiness the Dalai Lama or the policies of PRC. a threat to the health and sustainability CTA. The members also appealed to the of Tibetans but of the entire world. The UN and members of the international The members also called out those members, therefore, jointly proposed to community to prompt the Chinese nations in condemnation who despite include Tibet into the debate of this most government to enter into negotiations understanding the magnitude of Tibet’s urgent issue of time. with Tibet so as to reap a mutually deploring situation chooses not to stand beneficial solution. up to the PRC simply out of fear. The members also agreed upon the protection and preservation of the Meanwhile, the members expressed “We deplore the fear displayed by many Tibetan language as imperative on the their admiration for Tibetan’s solid governments to stand up to the PRC ground that the Tibetan Buddhism is commitment to seek the path of non- in the face of decades of its gross and the gateway to the understanding of the violence as the main weapon and said, systematic violation of fundamental mind and of human behavior, including “We are deeply moved by the courage of human rights and freedoms in Tibet the generation of love and compassion the Tibetan people in Tibet in their non- and in East Turkestan (Ch. Xinjiang) and other qualities essential to human violent resistance to Chinese repression as well as in Southern Mongolia (Inner happiness. and in their efforts to protect their Mongolia), and currently, in the face of national identity.” sustained protests, also in Hong Kong.

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Declaration of the 8th International Conference of Tibet Support Groups, Dharamshala, 3-5 November 2019 The 8th International Conference of We, the participants in the Conference Given the critical role of the Tibetan Tibet Support Groups was convened express deep concern that, whereas the Plateau, as the Third Pole, in global in Dharamshala from 3 to 5 November situation in occupied Tibet has gone from climate change, we commit to insert 2019 by the Core Group for Tibetan bad to worse, there are still no signs that Tibet, which is at the frontline of the Cause at a time of major political changes the government of the People’s Republic climate crisis, into the debate of this in the world, just as when the first such of China (PRC) is ready to engage in most urgent issue of our time. conference met in Dharamshala, in negotiations with representatives of His March 1990. To meet the opportunities Holiness the Dalai Lama or the CTA Conscient of the immense contribution of and challenges of such a time of change, to resolve the conflict caused by the Tibetan Buddhism to the understanding the reinvigoration of the Tibet movement PRC’s illegal invasion of Tibet almost of the mind and of human behavior, is not only called for, but is already 70 years ago and by its occupation including the generation of love and evidenced by the participation of 180 of the country and repression of the compassion and other qualities essential delegates from Tibet support groups and Tibetan people ever since. We call on to human happiness, and therefore the other supporters from 42 countries in all the Chinese government to resume the value of the scholarly works in which regions of the world, as well as by their dialogue, which occurred on the basis of this vast knowledge is contained, it determination to intensify their efforts the Middle Way Approach and engage is imperative to protect the Tibetan for the freedom of Tibet and its people. in earnest negotiations without delay, language and culture that provides and we urge the UN and members of access to it. The participants met for an extended the international community to persuade time with His Holiness the Dalai Lama the Chinese government to do so. At the Supporting the decision of the 3rd and were greatly encouraged by his same time, we commend His Holiness Special General Meeting of the explanation of his four commitments— the Dalai Lama and the Central Tibetan Tibetans in Dharamshala in October, promotion of human values, promotion Administration for their continued we insist that all decisions regarding the of religious harmony; preservation commitment to non-violence and to reincarnation of the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibetan language, culture and seeking a mutually beneficial negotiated are the exclusive responsibility of His Nalanda Buddhist heritage, as well solution. We are deeply moved by the Holiness the Dalai Lama and his Gaden as the protection of Tibet’s natural courage of the Tibetan people in Tibet in Phodrang Trust. Any interference in environment; and revival of ancient their non-violent resistance to Chinese this process by the PRC authorities and Indian knowledge—which reflect his repression and in their efforts to protect any attempt at selecting or appointing a altruistic vision for the future. their national identity. Dalai Lama by the Chinese government will have no legitimacy and should be Participants fully endorse his conviction We deplore the fear displayed by many condemned and subjected to sanctions regarding the profoundly important governments to stand up to the PRC by the international community. contribution the Tibetan people and in the face of decades of its gross and culture can make to human development, systematic violation of fundamental The struggle for Tibetan freedom is a and are therefore persuaded that support human rights and freedoms in Tibet struggle for justice, truth, and freedom. for the Tibetan cause is support for and in East Turkestan (Ch. Xinjiang) We are committed to continuing the humanity as a whole. as well as in Southern Mongolia (Inner work until the conflict is resolved to Mongolia), and currently, in the face of the satisfaction of the Tibetan people. The conference was addressed by the sustained protests, also in Hong Kong. As long as the Tibetan people remains Sikyong (President) of the Tibetan Instead of firmly acting on the side of under alien occupation, subjugation Government-in-Exile, which is called truth and justice, those governments and and exploitation, and is therefore the Central Tibetan Administration a number of corporate actors betray our denied the exercise of its right to self- (CTA), and the Speaker of the Tibetan core values of democracy, rule of law, determination, the Tibetan struggle Parliament in Exile. The conference self-determination and human rights in for freedom and justice is everyone’s heard speakers from Tibet, Hong Kong, pursuit of commercial gain. Similarly, struggle for freedom and justice. And East Turkestan, Southern Mongolia and they fail to challenge the PRC’s attacks so, just as we call for solidarity with Taiwan, as well as from India, South on those very values and the institutions the people of Tibet, so too we express Africa, the U.K, Australia, China, and that embody them in our own countries. solidarity with all who suffer under the the US, all of whom shared a sense of We are determined to expose such PRC’s repressive policies, indeed, all optimism and actively participated in the betrayal of and attacks on our values other peoples deprived of their freedom, proceedings of the conference. and will forge powerful coalitions and for no one can be truly free so long as alliances to do so. others are oppressed.

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As the 1990s era of people’s resistance returns, Tibet will be at forefront once again: Sikyong at the 8th International TSG conference

For three days, 180 political leaders, MPs, Tibet Support Groups, policymakers, pro-democracy activists, intellectuals including Chinese scholars across 42 countries will be deliberating on galvanising global Tibet advocacy at the 8th International Conference of Tibet Support Groups being held here in Dharamshala.

The 8th edition of International Tibet Support Groups conference is dedicated to consolidating efforts on how to steer the Tibet issue on the forefront, build a conducive environment for multilateral coalitions on proactive Tibet campaigns and to further the Central Tibetan Administration’s Middle Way Policy President Dr Lobsang Sangay, Central Tibetan Administration delivers the keynote address at the with the view to renewing the Sino-Tibet inaugural ceremony of the 8th International Conference of Tibet Support Groups at Central Tibetan dialogue. Secretariat, 3 November 2019. Photo/Tenzin Jigme/CTA religious freedom in Tibet into the we have to tighten our belt and march The discussions was largely pertain to highest gear. forward for some more years, into some charting out concrete action plans for the more activities around the world so that future course of global Tibet advocacy, “We are on the verge of entering the we can march towards Lhasa very soon.” mainly on optimizing engagement with 1990s era,” said President Dr Sangay. the Chinese authorities on Tibet issue. “As I read in news recently the Prime Sikyong drove home the urgency of Minister of Lebanon resigned because of tackling China’s aggressive politicisation The Conference is being convened the consistent people’s protest from the of the centuries-old sacred institution of by the Core Group for the Tibetan grassroots level. PM of Iraq resigned just Tibetan reincarnation. Cause, India under the facilitation of yesterday because of people’s protest the Department of Information and in Iraq. People’s protest in Istanbul, in He said, “Recently the US Ambassador International Relations, CTA. Turkey, Venezuela, everywhere! And at large for International Religious of course, our dear friends in Hong Freedom, Sam Brownback came here The inaugural plenary hosted a keynote Kong who have been persistently and to Dharamshala at the invitation of address by the President of CTA, Dr consistently leading the people’s protest. CTA and made the strongest speech in Lobsang Sangay, preceded by the The 1990s is back and the world is support of Tibetan religious freedom and Speaker of Tibetan Parliament, Pema shaking for more Freedom, more human reincarnation, after what we had recently Jungney’s address and the National rights and more democracy.” concluded as the 3rd Special General Convenor of Core Group for Tibetan body meeting of Tibetan representatives. Cause, Shri Rinchen Khando Khrimey’s “And our friends in Hongkong, East welcome address. Turkestan and Taiwan are making it loud “And the Ambassador Brownback and clear that we are here not for a few agreed upon the resolutions passed at Setting the tone for the largest global weeks, not for a few months but for the the Special Meeting and said that in convention on Tibet, President Dr long haul.” his speech which was approved by the Lobsang Sangay said the era of the US State Department and the White 1990s people’s resistance movement “The 90s was the peak stage of the House that official stance of the US is returning in full power, challenging Tibetan movement. Why? Mass Government is to support the Tibetan authoritarian and repressive regimes movement around the world shook the stance on reincarnation.” around the world. In such an opportune earth and brought changes, including environment, he said, the international democracy and human rights around Early October this year, the largest body community and stakeholders must the world,” he added. “In this changing of Tibetan people’s representatives step up activism for human rights and landscape, as Tibet support Groups unanimously passed a four-point

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In conclusion, Sikyong hailed the 8th International TSG Conference a hugely auspicious event given the auspicious symbolism of the no. 8 in Chinese numerology.

“Today is the 8th International Tibet Support Group conference. In Chinese, no. 8 is Bā [Chin: 八] means prosperity which is why the Chinese Olympic was held on 8 August 2008 at 8.8 pm. So it is Bā, prosperity for Tibet is going to happen through this conference. In 1990, 8 resolutions were passed. From this conference, we have to pass 8 different campaigns. Coincidently, 88 different groups have come to this conference and in 2011, I took the oath on August 8th, The opening ceremony of the 8th International Tibet Support Groups conference in Dharamshala, India, sending a message to China that during on 3 November 2019. my tenure, prosperity after prosperity “Some countries propose to mediate resolution in response to the Chinese will happen. And it has! Dharamshala and suggest that there can be one Dalai Communist Party’s advancing has prospered.” interference. The resolutions re-affirmed Lama from the Chinese side and one from the Tibetan side. On reincarnation, the relationship between the lineage “Bā conference will lead to there is no common ground! We must of Dalai Lamas and Tibetan people as Bā[prosperity] for Tibet and that’s how make our argument loud and clear. This inseparable and inevitable; called for His Holiness the Dalai Lama will return is an issue of religious freedom and no the lineage of successive reincarnations to Tibet, basic freedom will be restored one can interfere.” of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to in Tibet and Tibetans in and outside continue; asserted the sole authority of Tibet will be reunited. And we will have If any government wishes to find His Holiness and the duly empowered the 9th TSG conference in Tibet. We are common ground, Sikyong said, “find officials of the Gaden Phodrang Trust the Bā conference moving to the 9th. So common ground on the Middle Way with regard to the reincarnation and it is all good,” he concluded. finally, it outrightly rejected China’s Approach on the issue of Tibet.” There is no argument whatsoever on the issue interference in process for the discovery Sri RK Khrimey, National Convenor for of Reincarnation. and recognition of reincarnations in Core Group for Tibetan Cause, while Tibetan Buddhism in general and introducing the regional and national Sikyong took a moment to thank the especially its coercive Order No. 5. level Tibet support group chapters gathering of 180-strong representatives in India, said that over 16 major of Tibet Support Groups, saying that Further in the context, Sikyong said, organisations and 300 local chapters “their efforts, big or small, makes the “The traditional reincarnation system have been voluntarily and actively difference.” Quoting His Holiness, he was invented by Tibetans. The Tulku mobilising efforts for the Tibetan cause said, ‘You all are not simply pro-Tibet system is a thousand years old. We sine the time His Holiness the Dalai but you are pro-justice.’ invented it so we have complete Lama stepped on Indian soil as a refugee. copyright over it, patent over it. China “All of you have been with us, not just can manufacture a lot of duplicate things “These NGOs, voluntary organizations for one or two months, not just for one but they can not make duplicates of the have been working since the day, the or two years but more than 10, 20 and reincarnation system. This is originally year when His Holiness the Dalai Lama 30 years… You should take pride that ours; Tibetan own it.” has landed in our country India because we were the key player in 1990s when this was the first voice in our Indian the world changed into more democracy, He categorically stated that there’s no parliament at the time to liberate every more human rights. We were the key room for questions or debates on the inch of Indian land occupied by China, players. Free Tibet movement was very ownership of Reincarnation for the and secondly to liberate Tibet. These popular and Free Tibet was a slogan.” Reincarnation tradition was invented by were the resolutions.” Tibetans a thousand years ago, “in 4000 He also declared that Tibetans worldwide meters high Tibetan plateau with the The former Indian Minister announced led by the CTA will observe the year blessings of gods and deities of Tibet.” that the recently convened 6th All 2020 as a year of saying thank you to India Tibet Support Group Conference His Holiness. issued a declaration acknowledging 18 TIBETAN BULLETIN NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 FOCUS and extending complete support to the Speaker Puma Jungney, Tibetan Tibetan Administration has, again and Middle Way Approach policy as the Parliament-in-Exile, presiding over the again, requested you to acknowledge official political stand of the Central plenary as the chief guest said, “During this mutually beneficial steps in solving Tibetan Administration vis-à-vis the our earlier years of exile, Tibetan people the cause of Tibet and today on this 8th outstanding Tibet issue and secondly, to and Central Tibetan Administration International Conference too, we appeal bolster support in initiating constructive received minimum support and attention you once more to follow the Middle negotiations between the envoys of from the International communities. Way Approach in working towards However, in the late 1980s, His Holiness Tibetan movement. As you all are aware the 14th Dalai Lama, Central Tibetan that this Approach is the political stand Administration and very few Tibet of the Central Tibetan Administration.” Support Groups succeeded in gaining attention from international media and Among other notable speakers of the two public for the issue of Tibet. Thus in day discussions will be Martin Bursik, 1990, Central Tibetan Administration former Deputy Prime Minister and held the First International Conference former Environment Minister, Czech on Tibet Support Groups in Dharamsala Republic; Michale Van Walt, Executive 180 strong participation of Tibet Support Groups to bring more awareness about the President of Kreddha, USA; Surendar from 42 countries at the 8th International Tibet issue of Tibet on a broader platform Kumar, National Co-Convenor, Core Support Group conference in Dharamshala, 3 and to garner more support from the Group for Tibetan Cause; Ben Shuei November 2019. Photo/Tenzin Jigme/CTA international communities. Today, we Kobayashi, Japan Committee for Tibet; have more than 250 Tibet Support Gunther Cologna, International Tibet His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Groups, who are working actively Network, Co-Chair, South Tyrol; Axel Chinese government. towards resolving the issue of Tibet.” Holger Grafmanns, Executive Director, He also made clear that the TSGs Tibet Initiative Deutschland, Germany; accords the complete understanding of As he thanked the delegates for their Marco Antonio Karam, Director, Casa the Middle Way Policy as espoused by enduring and unrelenting support Tibet Mexico; Ajai Singh, President, the Central Tibetan Administration and and activism for Tibet, he remained Indo Tibet Friendship Society; will accordingly align activities based that until 1979, CTA and the Tibetan Tenzin Jigdal and Mandie Mckeown, on the CTA’s MWA. people adopted a policy of seeking International Tibet Network and others. independence for Tibet since Tibet “As concerned with India we have a was an independent country before the Meanwhile, a diverse panel of MPs, powerful and popular prime minister illegal occupation. scholars, democracy activists from South who has been established as the most Africa, Hong Kong, East Turkistan, powerful leader in the world in the short China, Taiwan, Inner Mongolia and span of 5 years. We have full faith in Australia will discuss the momentum our Prime Minister that he will take the of political support for Tibet in their Tibet cause on an appropriate time for respective countries. the problems to be solved. So therefore with his leadership and confidence, the Mkhuleko Hlengwa, MP, Inkatha issue of Tibet will come with a solution Freedom Party; Joseph Cheng, activist, and will be solved,” he said. Hong Kong; Zumretay Airken, World Uyghur Congress; Chong Yi Feng, He also heaped admirations for the Long-time Tibet supporters from 42 countries Professor of University of Technology, leadership of President Dr Sangay and gather in Dharamshala for the 8th International Sydney; Fu-Te Ford Liao, Director, Conference of Tibet Support Groups. spirit and determination of Tibetan Taiwan Foundation for Democracy; people inside Tibet as well as those in Olhunud Daichin, Chairman, South exile who have persevered a long hard “But then, with the changes in the Mongolia Congress and Michael Danby, struggle and continue to do so. independent status of countries and former MP and former Co-Chair of nationalities in the world, His Holiness Australia Parliamentary Support Group “So, therefore, I heartily welcome you the 14th Dalai Lama came up with the for Tibet are the panel speakers. with a commitment towards a mission. great vision of Middle Way Approach We would like to see some solution to as the most sensible step in solving the come during the lifetime of His Holiness conflicts of Tibet and China in the early the 14th Dalai Lama so that he can 1970s.” honourably go to his motherland ad re-establish the authority. This is our “There have been seven International urgency that we have to work towards,” Conferences on Tibet Support Groups he concluded. and in all these conferences, Central NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 19 FOCUS

His Holiness the Dalai Lama graces the 14th Tibetan Religious Conference

Led by the heads of the various traditions of Tibetan Buddhism and native Tibetan Bon tradition, the religious congregation of 115 reincarnate lamas, eminent Buddhist scholars and representatives of all major Tibetan Buddhist institutes in exile including 17 nun scholars and Buddhist masters from the Himalayan region—attending the 14th Tibetan Religious Conference—collectively in earnest prayers beseeched for the continuation of the Dalai Lama institution and pledged their unshakeable trust and devotion in His Holiness the Dalai Lama as the supreme authority over Tibetan Buddhism and the Tibetan people.

Obliging to the impassioned prayers and aspirations of his devout, karmic-bound followers, His Holiness today delivered His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressing the valedictory session of the 14th Tibetan Religious Conference benevolent words of reassurance that he as the key-honoured guest at T-building auditorium, Central Tibetan Secretariat in Gangchen Kyishong, is in “excellent health and completely 29 November 2019. Photo/Tenzin Phende/CTA joyful”, while also indicating that “The Buddhist tradition followed in Tibet several important Buddhist texts from there is still time before the process of is according to the instructions first laid India into Tibetan. choosing a successor starts. down by Nalanda master Shantarakshita who Trisong Detsen invited to Tibet in “And later during the reign of Trisong On hearing the news, the gathering of the 8th century. Due to the kindness of Dhetsen, the Tibetan script and language the Buddhist masters abounded with such great Indian masters and Tibetan was further enriched as a corpus of sentiments of gratitude, blissfulness, and dharma king Trisong Detsen—who Buddhist literature and texts covering hope. Outside the auditorium at CTA despite having special links to China vast and profound knowledge of ancient headquarters, Tibetans came in droves to decided to seek Buddhism in India—the Indian literature were translated into bask in his blessings and celebrate this Tibetan people have inherited the unique Tibetan.” rare visit of their most revered spiritual tradition of Buddhism that follows the leader, the heart and soul of the Tibetan path of reason and not the authority of In between these reflections, His people. scriptures,” His Holiness said. Holiness frequently remarked that he is eternally indebted to the ancient Speaking at the gathering of the 14th It was also in Trisong Detsen’s reign Nalanda masters and scholars for their Tibetan Religious Conference, His that Shantarakshita envisioned the contribution to Tibetan Buddhism. Holiness the Dalai Lama said, “I extend translation of Indian Buddhist literature my greetings and thanks to the heads into Tibetan and established Samye, the “I would say that Tibetan people are of the various traditions of Tibetan first Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Tibet truly blessed to have received and Buddhism and native Tibetan Bon which included a Monastic section and uphold such profound religious tradition tradition who have come to participate in a Translation section where translation which can be considered a pinnacle of the 14th Tibetan Religious Conference. I of texts of Buddha’s teaching (Tib: culture,” His Holiness said. “In fact, thank everyone, the respective religious Kagyur) and commentaries by Indian Buddhism which came to Tibet from the heads as well as their representatives.” masters (Tib: Tengyur) was carried out. Nalanda tradition should not be regarded simply as a religion, it has the potential His Holiness then began by paying His Holiness spoke about the 7th-century to serve the academic field, as logic and tribute to the ancient Indian tradition, dharma king Songtsen Gampo who psychology.” particularly the Nalanda tradition, invented Tibetan script based on India’s which he described as the source of the Devanagari script by commissioning Dismissing past notions of Tibetan Buddhist tradition practised in Tibet Tibetan scholars to devise Tibetan Buddhism as being Lamaism, His since the 8th century. alphabet and grammar from Devanagari Holiness noted the growing interest script which enabled translations of among Western scientists in engaging

20 TIBETAN BULLETIN NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 FOCUS in deeper conversations with Tibetan His Holiness recited prayers from Speaking to the gathering, Speaker Buddhist contemplative disciplines. ‘’The Words of Truth’, an invocation Pema Jungney of the Tibetan Parliament of compassion towards all suffering in exile recapitulated few points based “These days, an increasing number of sentient beings that He composed in on the advice presented by His Holiness scientists and scholars are appreciating 1960, and urged everyone to pray for the during the series of religious conferences the emphasis the Tibetan tradition brothers and sisters who sacrificed their held previously. places on study, reason, and logic and lives for the Tibetan cause. have noted that the logical character Further remarking on the resolutions of of Tibetan Buddhism is comparable to “It is an act of courage and practice the 14th Religious Conference adopted science.” of non-violence. We must always unanimously by the religious heads remember them when we recite the and representatives, Speaker said that it On the other hand, His Holiness also Words of Truth.” was only right that the successor of His noted that more and more people, Holiness must be chosen by himself and especially in mainland China, are coming to realise that Tibetan Buddhism is a complete form of Buddhism.

“These growing interests are an affirmation that the Tibetan Buddhist tradition has the potential to contribute to humanity. Based on over 40 years of discussions with scientists and thorough study of the Buddhist treatises, I have come to identify three parts within the texts of Buddha’s teachings and commentaries which are Science, philosophy, and religion.”

While the Buddhism as religion will serve the spiritual practitioners, His Holiness said Buddhist science and philosophy, on the other hand, could make pathbreaking contributions to His Holiness the Dalai Lama with the heads of the major Tibetan religious traditions and Tibetan native Bon tradition at the 14th Tibetan Religious Conference in Dharamsala, HP, India on November 29, 2019. key fields of modern study and towards Photo/Tenzin Phende/CTA emotional wellbeing as well. “The Tibetans inside Tibet are the not anyone else especially not to fulfill a Hence in retrospect, His Holiness said source of our strength and inspiration. political agenda. the loss of Tibet’s independence and And likewise, we are theirs. Their thereafter the six decades of Tibetan indomitable spirit and the community Kalon of Religion and Culture, Ven exilehood has been a blessing in efforts of Tibetans in exile have together Karma Gelek Yuthok pledged his disguise, an opportunity to re-invigorate contributed to the Tibetan exile success department’s commitment to do their Tibetan identity as the custodian of one story,” He said. best in fulfilling the recommendations of the pinnacles of cultural and religious of the conference. tradition. His Holiness concluded by re-affirming “This is the fruition of the farsighted the special karmic relation between the “Following the advice of His Holiness, vision and kindness of the great dharma six million Tibetan people and Chenresig we are committed to focusing more on kings, erudite scholars and masters of and assured that the Tibetan people, for collaborating in dialogue with science Tibet,” His Holiness said, imploring that eons and eons, will remain spiritually to share Buddhist philosophy and its in harnessing the potential teachings of connected and guided by the Buddha of study of logic which continues to be of this tradition, Tibetans are in a unique Compassion, Chenresig. relevance today,” Kalon concluded. position to serve the humanity. In the afternoon, the valedictory session Commenting on the prevailing situation was held which was attended by the in Tibet, His Holiness said he greatly Speaker Pema Jungney of the Tibetan admires the courage and spirit of Parliament-in-Exile and Kalon Karma Tibetans inside Tibet that remains Gelek Yuthok of Department of Religion undaunted and undefeated even in the and Culture. face of extreme brutality and violence. NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 21 FOCUS

14th Tibetan Religious Conference affirms the Dalai Lama’s sole authority in his reincarnation, illegitimizes China’s meddling in religious affairs Ever since 1969, when asked about his next reincarnation, His Holiness the Dalai Lama has told the international media that it was a matter to be decided by the Tibetan people. As it stands now, it is important for the Tibetan people to enact a legitimate stand on the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation. In that light, a necessary special resolution on reincarnation was passed at the 14th Tibetan Religious Conference which began today at the headquarters of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA). The conference is being organised by the Department of Religion and Culture, CTA.

The relationship between successive Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the 14th Tibetan Religious Conference Dalai Lamas and the Tibetan people convened at the CTA headquarters, 27 November 2019. Photo/Tenzin Phende/CTA has been akin to that between head and such authority. If the Government of the the Himalayan region, Khen Rinpoches neck, or, as it were, between the body People’s Republic of China for political of major Tibetan Buddhist institutes in and its shadow, and therefore never ever ends chooses a candidate for the Dalai exile, heads and members of Tibetan separable. Hence it is only to be expected Lama, the Tibetan people will not monastic institutes and representatives that the tradition of the continuance of recognize and respect that candidate. of Tibetan nunneries were present among the lineage of the Dalai Lamas through the 100-strong participants. Dignitaries successive reincarnations based on the Regarding the method of recognizing the of the Tibetan Administration including Tibetan Buddhist tradition should remain future reincarnations of the Dalai Lama, the heads of three pillars of Democracy, for the sake of the Tibetan people. the same unique Tibetan traditional Kalons, and Members of the Tibetan method, which has been continuously Parliament in Exile attended the As such, through this conference, Tibetan used until now, will be followed. This inaugural ceremony. religious heads and representatives method conforms to be basic philosophy see it as imperative to adopt a special and tenets of the Buddhadharma and The conference will focus on enabling resolution which thus follows hereunder. originated in Tibet over 800 years ago. extensive participation of the religious heads and other important figures of Dharamshala Declaration – The three-day conference is administered Tibetan Buddhism in the discussion Resolutions: by the heads and important figures of and decision making on the overarching various traditions of Tibetan Buddhism significance of Tibetan tradition of The Karmic bond between the Dalai and native Tibetan Bon tradition recognising the reincarnation of scholar- Lamas and the Tibetan people have including H.E Sakya Trizin Rinpoche, adepts with a particular emphasis on been inseparable and the present status H.E Gaden Tri Rinpoche, H.E Drikung the discovery and recognition of the of the Tibetan people being extremely Kyabgon Chetsang Rinpoche, H.E reincarnation of His Holiness the Dalai critical, all Tibetans genuinely wish for Kyabje Menri Trizin Rinpoche, Kyabje Lama. the continuation of the Institution and Tsurphu Gorshe Gyaltsab Rinpoche Reincarnation of the Dalai Lama in the (Representative of Gyalwa Karmapa), Addressing the inaugural session of future. We therefore strongly supplicate Rev. Taklung Matrul Rinpoche the conference, Sikyong Dr. Lobsang to His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama for (Representative of H.E Taklung Sangay apprised on the resolutions the same. Shabdrung Rinpoche), Namdroling passed in the recently held 3rd Special Tulku Choedhar Rinpoche, Ven. Khenpo General Meeting of Tibetans whereby The authority of decision concerning the Ngedhon Tenzin (Representative of it was declared that the exclusive right way and the manner in which the next H.E Gyalwang Drukchen), and Jonang and the power regarding the discovery reincarnation of the XIV Dalai Lama Gyaltsab Rinpoche. and recognition of reincarnations of should appear solely rests with His His Holiness the Dalai Lama lies in Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama himself. Other eminent Tibetan rinpoches and His Holiness himself and the Gaden No government or otherwise will have tulkus, representatives and lamas from Phodrang Trust of the Dalai Lama. And 22 TIBETAN BULLETIN NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 FOCUS any effort being made by China via its US hits back at China for protesting US Envoy’s Order no 5 will be outrightly considered as invalid as per the resolution adopted. meeting with the Dalai Lama; Praises India’s “Extraordinary Generosity” Sikyong then notified on the alarming meddling of China in the reincarnation Hitting back at China for its “meritless” said the US stance on the reincarnation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama not only claim that the Dalai Lama’s succession of the Dalai Lama is in accord with the through its implementation of Order must comply with Chinese laws and resolutions passed at the third Special no 5 but by threatening and putting regulations, the United States reiterated General meeting of Tibetan people. pressures on India against interfering in that Tibetan communities, like all the selection of next Dalai Lama. faith communities, should be able “Earlier this month at the 3rd Special to select, educate, & venerate their General meeting in Dharamshala, “China’s extreme hostility towards religious leaders without government Tibetans from far and wide underscored religious freedom in Tibet is totally interference. the right of the Dalai Lama and unacceptable to us and likewise, we other Tibetan leaders to identify and vehemently reject any advancement Alice Wells, Acting Assistant Secretary recognise a successor to His Holiness of China’s interferences in the process of State, Bureau of South and Central and rejected Chinese authorities to of the reincarnation system. If any, It Asia, said in a tweet that “The Chinese interfere in this process. Let me be clear! should be for the Tibetans to decide Communist Party claim that Dalai The United States shares that view,” and defend” said Sikyong Dr Lobsang Lama’s succession “must comply said Ambassador Brownback while Sangay. with Chinese laws and regulations” is officiating the inauguration of the First meritless. Tibetan communities, like International Conference on Tibetan “Though China continues to put pressure all faith communities, should be able Performing Arts at Dharamshala. on India, India’s consistent generosity to select, educate, & venerate their and kindness towards Tibetans have religious leaders without government “Tibetan Buddhists and all other faith always been the same” added Sikyong. interference. AGW”. communities should be able to select, educate and venerate their religious Remarking on the recent visit of Senator She also said Ambassador Sam leader without government interference. Brownback, US Ambassador for Brownbacks’ meeting with His the selection effects not just Tibetans Religious Freedom, Sikyong said that Holiness the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala but for the global Buddhist community. the US fully supports and favours the emphasised the enduring US support for Decision regarding the selection of Tibetan Buddhist system of selecting the the Tibetan people, and also appreciated Tibetan Buddhist leaders rests with the successors. India for supporting Tibetan religious Dalai Lama, Tibetan Buddhist leaders freedom. and people of Tibet. Period!” “The US government has officially stated its support for the Tibetan “@IRF_Ambassador’s meeting with The US government under the Trump people’s religious freedom to select, His Holiness in Dharamsala emphasizes administration has bolstered its moral educate and venerate their religious enduring U.S. support for the Tibetan stance and leadership in advancing leaders without state interferences,” said people. India has greatly supported religious freedom for Tibetan people, the democratically elected leader of the Tibetan religious freedom, and the U.S. Uyghurs and for people of faith all Tibetans in exile. stands in deep admiration of India’s around the world. Building on the extraordinary generosity,” she tweeted. success of the Reciprocal Access to Kalon for Religion and Culture, Ven Tibet Act signed by President Trump, a Karma Gelek Yuthok, in his opening The US Ambassador at large for bipartisan Tibetan Policy and Support remarks, explained the recent steps taken International Religious Freedom, His Act 2019 was introduced in the US to change the title of the conference. Excellency Samuel D. Brownback was Senate and House of Representatives in He expressed his appreciation and in Dharamshala last week at the special September this year. If enacted, the bill confidence that this conference in its invitation of CTA President Dr Lobsang would impose sanctions and a visa ban optimum capacity will deliver fruitful Sangay. The Ambassador’s presence on any Chinese official who interferes results. here at the seat of Central Tibetan in the selection of a successor to His Administration gestured the strongest Holiness the Dalai Lama. In addition, political support for the Tibetan people, the bill would require the Secretary of particularly for Tibetan religious State to seek to establish a consulate in freedom. Lhasa.

After more than hour-long meeting For detailed news visit: with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and www.tibet.net CTA President Dr Lobsang Sangay, he NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 23 FOCUS

34 Chinese scholars, democratic leaders issue joint statement rejecting Chinese government’s claims in the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation

Prominent Chinese scholars and leaders, Buddhists within Tibet and all around Representative Ngodup Tsering and including the former chief editor of the world. It is illegal and invalid. Chinese Liaison Officer, Tsultrim Beijing Spring, Mr Hu Ping, Chinese Gyatso, attended the event along with democratic leaders Mr Chen Pokong and 2. We strongly support Tibetans’ fight for President and board members of Tibetan many others attended the “New York their basic human rights and freedom, Association NY & NJ. President of Sino -Tibet Dialogue- 2019”, Chinese preservation of their cultural heritage, RTYC and Kunga Tashi, former Chinese outreach program organised by the religious freedom, and to safeguard their Liaison officer were also among those Office of Tibet, Washington DC. natural ecosystem. present.

At the event, former chief editor of 3. We are resolute in our support of His Representative Tsering spoke about Beijing Spring, Mr Hu Ping read out the Holiness’ proposal of “Middle Way the need for all victims of Chinese joint statement, issued by a number of Approach”. It is beneficial for both the communist’s atrocities- Tibetans, prominent Chinese scholars and leaders Tibetan community and the Chinese Uighurs, and Hong Kongers, to fight who live in the United States, rejecting people. together and intensify our own struggle the Chinese Government’s interference in the wake of international outrage at the in the Reincarnation of the next Dalai 4. We respect and support the Dalai sinister design of the CCP to control the Lama which it stated is Tibetan People’s Lama’s wish to promote Tibet-Chinese world. He elaborated on the Middle Way right. It further said: friendship. Tibet-China shares a long Policy which CTA has been pursuing history, and we are willing to strengthen for more than 4 decades. The CCP 1. The reincarnation of the Dalai Lama Tibetan-Chinese friendship. has no other interest than their power is purely a Tibetan religious affair and and authority, citing the case of Fudan the Dalai Lama himself has the sole Prominent Chinese scholars and leaders, University in China, where freedom legitimate authority on it, and the CCP including the former chief editor of of thought was replaced by allegiance has no right to interfere. Throughout the Beijing Spring, Mr Hu Ping, Chinese to Xi’s thought, according to the ABC history of Tibetan Buddhism, the tradition democratic leaders Mr Chen Pokong, report. He also urged the attendees to of Lamas to choose their successor has Wang Dan, Wu Er Kai Xi, Wang expand the Sino-Tibet friendship circle. existed. The Dalai Lama is fully entitled Juntao and several organisations, such to designate his own successor. During as Beijing Spring Magazine, China The Chinese Liaison officer, Tsultrim the Qing dynasty, Manchu emperors Democratic Solidarity Alliance, China Gyatso, welcomed the guests and interfered in the reincarnation of the Democracy Party National Committee, introduced the programmes and Dalai Lama by means of the Golden National Joint Headquarters of China outreach plans of the Office of Tibet, Urn. The only exception, the 11th Dalai Democracy Party, International Han- which is especially geared to building Lama went through the Golden Urn Tibetan Friendship, and the China rapport and friendship and awareness process but subsequent Dalai Lamas Association of Political Asylum Seekers in the Chinese diaspora. He thanked were recognized as reincarnations signed and support the statement. the Chinese supporters for their long- through rituals of Tibetan Buddhism standing friendship and support. and have not subscribed to the Golden Prominent political commentator and Urn rule. The 14th Dalai Lama was Chinese democratic leader Mr Chen The President of the Tibetan Association similarly determined without going Pokong thanked the Representative of New York and New Jersey, Mr. through the Golden Urn rule. As the of Office of Tibet for bringing them Sonam Gyephel, introduced community Dalai Lama previously stated, “The CCP together and lauded the CTA’s effort for development projects including Sunday is an atheist who criticises religions, the smooth passage of the Tibetan Policy schools. especially treating Buddhism as a sign and Support bill in the House Foreign of ignorance, backwardness, and has Affairs Committee recently. always accused me of being a devil. It is reasonable if they say ‘no’ to allowing Mr Chen shared his thoughts on the the devil to reincarnate, but now the CCP CCP’s failing economy and foreign is clamouring to get reincarnation of the diplomacy, social unrest in Hong Kong, devil for themselves.” It’s out of the and problems in many parts of China. question, ridiculously illogical. The CCP is attempting to appoint reincarnation by A Representative of Hongkong protesters meddling with His Holiness the Dalai also spoke on behalf of Hongkongers Lama’s authority in this matter. This is and shared their vision, determination a brutal violation of the right of Tibetan and goal. 24 TIBETAN BULLETIN NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 FEATURE Urge your members of Congress and Senate to co-sponsor the Tibetan Policy Act 2019: Sikyong appeals Tibetans in US

President of the Central Tibetan Administration, Dr Lobsang Sangay, today called upon the Tibetan people in the U.S. to lobby the Congresspersons and Senators of their respective constituencies by urging them to co- sponsor the Tibetan Policy and Support Act 2019 (H.R. 4331).

The U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affair is set to hold a markup session, a process by which a U.S. congressional committee debates, amends, and rewrites proposed legislation on the Tibetan Policy and Support Act 2019 (H.R. 4331).

Built on the Tibetan Policy Act of 2002, the Tibetan Policy and Support Act of CTA President Dr Lobsang Sangay appealed members of US Congress and Senate to support the passage 2019 was introduced in the US House of the Tibetan Policy and Support Act of 2019 during his visit to Washington DC in September this year. on 13 September 2019 by Rep. James Tibet and South Asia. The bill further Senator Josh Hawley, Senator Steve McGovern (D-Mass.), chair of the mandates that there should be no new Daines, Senator Thom Tillis, Senator Congressional-Executive Commission Chinese consulates in the U.S. unless a Pat Toomey, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, on China, and introduced in the Senate U.S consulate in Lhasa is established. Congressman Jim McGovern, on 24 September by the commission’s Congressman Andy Levin, Congressman Co-Chair Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.). The Tibetan Policy and Support Act of Vern Buchanan, Congressman The bill has already 30 bipartisan co- 2019 also introduces new key provisions David Price, Congresswoman Judy sponsors. aimed at protecting Tibet’s environment Chu, Congresswoman Terri Sewell, and rivers and promoting greater Congressman Ted Yoho, Congressman If passed, the bill would impose cooperation to mitigate the effects of Gerry Connolly, Congressman Ron sanctions on any Chinese officials who climate change in Tibet. Wright and Congressman Tim Burchett. interfere in the process of recognizing the successor or reincarnation of the The CTA President visited Washington As the holiday season draws near, 14th Dalai Lama. It would recognize DC in September and November this the CTA President appealed to every the Central Tibetan Administration as year to lobby the Congress and Senate Tibetan in the U.S. to spare a moment to the legitimate representative reflecting for the Tibetan Policy Act and Support call, e-mail or schedule a meeting with the aspirations of Tibetan people around 2019. He met with 21 Senators and their respective congresspersons and the world and support the democratic Congresspersons, including Senator senators and urge them to co-sponsor, governance of the Tibetan community Mitt Romney, Senator James Risch, support, and vote for the Tibetan Policy in exile and authorize the ongoing U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein, Senator and Support Act 2019 (H.R. 4331). appropriations to support Tibetans in Marco Rubio, Senator Tom Cotton,

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 25 FEATURE

Tibetan Policy and Support Act passes through US House Foreign Affairs Committee with strong bipartisan support

The Tibetan Policy and Support Act (HR 4331) passed through the US House Foreign Affairs Committee with strong bipartisan support at a markup hearing on Capitol Hill.

The bill is co-sponsored by the House Foreign Affairs’s chairman, Rep. Eliot Engel, who spoke in support for the Tibetan Policy and Support Act (TPSA).

After his remarks, Representative Chris Smith, the former Chair of the Congressional China Commission, voiced his support by detailing the long- standing injustices committed by the Chinese government against the Tibetan people. Tibetan Policy and Support Act passed through the US House Foreign Affairs Committee with strong bipartisan support at a markup hearing on Capitol Hill, 18 December 2019. Representative McGovern, the current retelling his visit to Dharamsala earlier letter that enclosed booklets about the Chair, introduced the bill along with this year. Central Tibetan Administration, the Representative Smith as a bipartisan Middle Way Policy, and the Tibetan effort. Rep. Smith highlighted the Representative Ngodup Tsering of Policy and Support Act. The Tibetan recent self-immolation protest of a Office of Tibet, Washington DC and Policy and Support Act was also strongly young Tibetan, Yonten, and especially Kelsang Dolma attended the markup lobbied by the Tibetan associations and promoted religious freedom as a human session of the House Foreign Affairs individuals across America. right. Committee. The bill will be voted on by the whole House in due course. “The Central Tibetan Administration Representative Steve Chabot and would like to thank the House Foreign Representative Gerry Connolly Earlier this year, CTA President Dr Affairs Committee for their support,” remarked on the imperative nature of the Lobsang Sangay ordered for the the Office of Tibet commented. Tibet Policy Act, with Rep. Connolly distribution of packages and personalized His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Middle Way Approach acknowledged in the House of Commons of Canada

parliament, acknowledging the positive always recollect from that meeting is contributions of His Holiness the his wisdom, his kindness, and most of Dalai Lama to humanity and the 30th all his dedication to the Tibetan people anniversary of the conferment of Nobel and his promotion of the Middle Way Peace Prize to His Holiness. Approach. To our honorary Canadian citizen His Holiness the Dalai Lama, I Addressing the House, MP Arif Virani simply say thank you.” said, “Today is the 30th anniversary of the award of the Nobel Peace Prize to The Canadian MP expressed his gratitude His Holiness the Dalai Lama. As the to His Holiness for his unflinching Arif Virani, MP for Parkdale-High Park in the MP for Parkdale- High Park, I take great contributions to the global community House of Commons of Canada. Photo: screengrab pride in representing the largest Tibetan through his advocacy of peace and non- MP Arif Virani, Representative of diaspora in North America”. violence. Parkdale -High Park in the House of Commons of Canada issued a Narrating his experience of meeting For detailed news visit: statement during the session of with His Holiness in Dharmashala www.tibet.net in 2018, MP Arif said, “What I will

26 TIBETAN BULLETIN NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 FEATURE Sikyong garners support for Tibet Policy Act 2019 at both Congress and Senate

Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay met with Congressman Ted Yoho, a longtime Tibet supporting Republican congressmank. The two met to discuss the possibility of a video conference between congress members and His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Sikyong and the Rep expressed concerns about China’s influence in Mongolia, and Rep Yoho agreed that there is bicameral & bipartisan support between the House and Senate for Tibet. Rep Yoho praises Tibetans for their resiliency.

In the afternoon, Sikyong met with Senator Toomey, a Republican Representative for Pennsylvania. Dr Later in the afternoon, the Chairman of Tibet Act after Sikyong explained to Sangay explained the history of the the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, him the mass surveillance of Tibetans in Central Tibetan Administration & Senator James Risch, met with Sikyong. occupied Tibet. Chinese surveillance. Sikyong debriefed the Chairman on the reincarnation issue between the Chinese Sikyong’s final senate meeting was After Senator Toomey, Sikyong met Communist Party and the Tibetan with Senator Mitt Romney, a former with Congressman Tim Burchett. religious community. The Senate presidential nominee. Romney recounted Representative Tsering has met with Foreign Relations Committee is where when he met with His Holiness the Rep Burchett before, and Rep Burchett the Tibet bill will be read and processed Dalai Lama when His Holiness visited immediately asked what he could do most thoroughly during the legislative Utah, and he expressed concerns about to help Tibet and agreed to cosponsor process. China’s uncooperativeness. The Senator the Tibet Policy and Support Act (HR said he wished China would respect the 4331). Rep Burchett’s father had fought After the meeting with Chairman Risch, sovereignty of Tibet and other regions. against the Chinese communists during Sikyong met with Senator Josh Hawley, World War 2. Congressman Burchett a rising young Republican senator for Overall Sikyong and the Office of Tibet even tweeted about the meeting. the state of Missouri. Senator Hawley entourage went back and forth across gladly stated he would cosponsor the Capitol Hill six times in the blustery weather for the meetings.

Internship Opportunity for College Science Students–2020

The Department of Education, CTA will be given to undergrad science is 15 March 2020. is pleased to announce a month-long students). It is advisable to check the internship program at two very reputed official websites of these two esteemed Incomplete applications, false research institutes in India – National institutes to know about the fields in information, and the applications after Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) which they are researching to see if it the last date of submission will not be Bangalore and Indian Institute of Science aligns with your field of interest. entertained. Education and Research (IISER) Pune. The Internships will be held from June NOTE: We have a total of 9 seats available. If 15 to July 15, 2020. Applicants are advised to download the the number of applicants exceeds the application form and send us the filled seat available, the selection will be done The interested candidates pursuing form along with the required documents on the merit basis. B.Sc. (Non- Computer, and Non – by email at [email protected]. Engineering) and M.Sc. may apply to For detail announcement kindly visit: avail of this opportunity (preference The last date for application submission www.tibet.net

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 27 FEATURE Canadian MPP urges the Parliament to support the restoration of peace and human rights in Tibet

community as they mark a special centre, one of the largest in Canada. “I anniversary. Thirty years ago today, His always look forward to attending events Holiness the Dalai Lama was awarded at the centre so I can see first hand the the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in work they do with keeping the Tibetan advocating for the independence of Tibet culture alive in Ontario and Canada.” from China in a nonviolent manner.” She concluded her address, urging “all “The Dalai Lama has worked tirelessly members to take the time to meet the for the restoration of peace and human Tibetan-Canadian and listen to their rights in Tibet. When the Nobel prize suggestions on what we can do to restore MPP of Etobicoke—Lakeshore, committee chose the Dalai Lama, it peace and human rights in Tibet.” Christine Hogarth on 10 December emphasised that He based His Buddhist addressed the Ontario Parliament on the peace philosophy on reverence for all She also congratulated and commended 30th anniversary of the conferment of living things and the idea of a universal “the member for Parkdale- High Park, the Nobel peace prize on His Holiness responsibility that embraces both man one of the first persons of Tibetan the Dalai Lama, urging all the members and nature.” descent ever elected to public office of parliament to support the cause of in North America for the work she is restoring peace and human rights in The MPP hailed the Tibetan-Canadian doing to raise the profile of the Tibetan- Tibet. community as “a strong and vibrant Canadian community here in Queen’s community” and said she was honoured Park.” The MPP said, “Today, I rise in that her riding of the Etobicoke- recognition of the Tibetan-Candian Lakeshore is home to the Tibetan cultural For detailed news visit: www.tibet.net Canadians must stand in solidarity with Tibetans, Uyghurs and Hong Kongers: Toronto MPP Bhutila Karpoche Tibetan-Canadian MPP Bhutila human rights abuses by the Chinese Karpoche, who made history in 2018 government. by becoming the first Tibetan origin to be elected to public office in North “The arbitrary imprisonment of America, raised the subject of worsening environmental activist Anya Sengdra human rights conditions in Tibet in the and Tenzin Wangchuk for advocating Legislative Assembly of Ontario on 10 for Tibetans’ right to learn their own December, the 30th anniversary of the language and the more than 150 self- Nobel peace prize award on His Holiness immolations that have occurred since the Dalai Lama and International Human 2009 in protest of Chinese illegal Rights day. occupation of Tibet and their repressive policies.” Bhutila Karpoche, Member of Provincial MMP Bhutila Karpoche in her speech The MMP said China’s human rights Parliament for Parkdale-High Park addressing said, “I rise in the House today as proud violations were not only limited to Tibet, Legislative Assembly of Ontario. Tibetan-Canadian to commemorate but also in “East Turkistan and Hong Prize speech wherein he talked about the 30th anniversary of the conferment Kong- the recent leaked documents the right and freedom of individual and of Nobel peace prize on His Holiness which confirmed the mass detention of peoples to determine one’s own destiny, the 14th Dalai Lama. This honour was Uyghurs in camps for indoctrination she urged the Canadians to support the bestowed on His Holiness on December and forced labour; and the ongoing Tibetans, Uyghurs and Hong Kongers 10th, International Human Rights Day movement for democracy in Hong Kong in their pursuit for freedom and human or ‘the struggle for the liberation of Tibet which had reached its seventh month rights. and efforts for a peaceful resolution despite the Chinese government’s instead of using violence.” attempts to shut it down through mass “We who enjoy and have the freedom arrests and violence.” have a responsibility to support the However she said the situation in Tibet fight for the freedom of others,” she is worsening and there are ongoing Quoting the Dalai Lama’s Nobel Peace concluded.

28 TIBETAN BULLETIN NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 WORLD PRESS

Interview: Beijing should respect human rights of Tibetans and democracy in Hong Kong, says exiled leader Lobsang Sangay Shri Ram Shaw, Hong Kong Free Press For the last 60 years, there have been uninterrupted protests. There has been a clampdown, but the protests have continued for the last six decades. That shows that Tibetans are not happy with the present Chinese Communist system.

In May, US Ambassador to China Terry Branstad urged China to hold talks with the Dalai Lama, criticising Beijing’s interference in Tibetan Buddhists’ religious freedom. What is your reaction to this proposal?

Yes, His Holiness the Dalai Lama is a very revered person. He wants to have a very moderate, win-win solution based on a middle way approach. But the Chinese government is not listening to the US ambassador and other leaders The Dalai Lama. File photo: Christopher Michel, via Flickr. who keep urging the Chinese leadership image because he is well known around allowed to practice Buddhism after the to solve the issue of Tibet. the world. But, on Buddhism – the soft occupation of Tibet. power, they are already at the forefront. [A]t the moment there is the occupation Still, they are destroying and demolishing of Tibet and repression of Tibetans. So The Dalai Lama himself has made it a lot of monasteries and memorials. This what we would say is: end this repression quite clear that the decision about his is their track record. They criticise His and give genuine autonomy to Tibetans reincarnation solely lies on him. Who Holiness Dalai Lama throughout his as per the Chinese Constitution. That is will decide on a successor to the Dalai life. Now, they say, [they’ll] decide his the solution. Lama after his eventual death? incarnation. So, it’s illogical. Once you destroy things, once you vilify someone, It has been reported that China wants to I think this one we have to clarify. It’s why do you want incarnation of that control who the next Dalai Lama will be. not His Holiness. His Holiness the Dalai person? Are you concerned about Beijing’s reach Lama has said that it is for the Tibetan into Buddhist communities? people to decide. And, just recently we If Buddhists won’t accept a Chinese had a special General Body meeting of Dalai Lama, can there be two Dalai India is also a land of Buddhism. But, Tibetan Community leaders from 24 Lamas? in reality, the Chinese communist countries, around 315 of them came and government has taken over the lead on passed a unanimous resolution saying Buddhists won’t accept a Chinese Dalai the Buddhists long ago. If you look at that we want that incarnation of Tibetan Lama mainly because of this reason. For all the neighbouring Buddhist countries, people. example, Sitaram Yechury is the general and Buddhist communities, Buddhist secretary of the Communist Party of leaders, many of them align more with So it is for the Tibetan people to decide, India. He is a very respectable person. Communist China than with India. not the Communist Party of China Nice guy. I met him. because when you are communist you They have been working for the last are atheist… you believe that religion is But, if he appoints a Shankaracharya two decades to win the soft power of poison. [head of a Hindu monastery] and tells the Buddhism. So, they are way ahead of followers that I have appointed this guy India and they want to change through And all the Chinese government has as Shankaracharya, now all the Hindu that the Buddhist leadership and the done in Tibet is that they have destroyed people should follow him. How many image of His Holiness Dalai Lama. 98 per cent of Tibetan monasteries and people will follow that Shankaracharya? memorials, and 99 per cent of monks Even though Sitaram Yechury is a nice They will not succeed in changing his and nuns were disrobed and were not guy.

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019 TIBETAN BULLETIN 29 WORLD PRESS

But the Communist Party of China… All people in Hong Kong are asking for So Indian people should think when the what they have done is destroyed their human rights and their democracy whole world has given him so many monasteries, demolished memorials. which was promised… We are in awards, why not India? But, it is for the Monks and nuns have committed solidarity with people in Hong Kong Indian people and the government to suicide, they are burning themselves. So because they deserve their democracy, decide. And, as an Administration we much protest is happening. they deserve their human rights. don’t demand [it]. We can only create awareness. How will they follow the Dalai Lama What is your take on the Jammu and appointed by the Chinese government? Kashmir conflict – China appears to be Do you think in our lifetime will we be No chance. They will try to appoint one. siding with Pakistan. able to see a free, fearless, autonomous But, it’s a fake one, you know… but the and sovereign Tibet? fake is the fake. We don’t comment on the internal affairs of India. At the same time, we Yes, why not? One should always On September 22, you said in a TV don’t support what China is doing in remain hopeful. Life without hope is programme that Buddhism came to Hong Kong. We don’t support that. It’s often useless. One should always remain Tibet from India, but Tibetan democracy the double standard for the Chinese hopeful. I’m hopeful, and definitely, is adopted from Indian democracy. What government. during my lifetime we will see an is the road ahead for Tibet in light of autonomous Tibet with basic human Delhi’s ‘Made in India’ economic drive? What they are doing in Tibet, what they rights for Tibetan people. are doing in Hong Kong – and still India and Tibet are like the head and the they are supporting Pakistan. That’s the The Tibetan population is only half body. Literally, we are the head because double standard. a percent of the China population… we are on top of North India and we [and] the Communist Party of China is are also the roof of the world. All the His Holiness the Dalai Lama calls the largest political party in the world. 90-plus highest mountains of the world himself “a son of India.” Indian I think, China has the largest military are in Tibet. Mount Kailash is in Tibet, supporters for a free Tibet have urged in the world. But, they are afraid of one Mansarovar is in Tibet. Lord Shiva has the Central government in New Delhi man – the Dalai Lama. That’s the power been taking refuge in Tibet for thousands to confer Bharat Ratna – the country’s of truth. of years. highest civilian honour – on the Dalai Lama for his contributions in creating What is your message to Tibetans? So, we are the head and India is the goodwill for India in the last six decades. body… physically also. We are the Do you support the idea? Be strong. Be proud of what we are. original made in India. Indian people If you look at our history – there have should support the Tibetan cause His Holiness Dalai Lama has been been great kings, great dynasties, great because we are spiritually connected, honoured with all the major awards empires. The most ancient and rich geographically connected from Kashmir across the globe – Nobel Peace Prize, tradition of Nalanda University is kept to Arunachal Pradesh, the Templeton Prize on religious in the Tibetan language and no other harmony, the United Nations award language – including in India or any The Tibetan border is connected with on environmental issues and so many Buddhist country. India. And, culturally, we are connected – reputed universities have also awarded and even scripture wise… our scriptures him degrees including Harvard where If you look at our history, what we have are also connected. We are connected in he studied. achieved, we are a great civilisation and so many ways. Several rivers are also a great people. We should be proud of coming to India from Tibet. So India has to think whether this Son of ourselves and we shall succeed. India deserves the award or not. I think The Sutlej river comes from Tibet, Indus he is not just a Son of India, he is a great We believe that Chinese President Xi comes from Tibet. Brahmaputra river Son of India. Maybe perhaps he is one Jinping should often come to India… comes from Tibet. We are physically, of the best sons of India who carries the He should have a good relationship with spiritually and historically connected message of Indian Nalanda tradition India. China says that Tibet is one of their with India. If Made-in-India is to around the world. core issues. India should also recognise succeed, the original Made-in-India has Tibet as one of their core issues, because to succeed first. The Dalai Lama singlehandedly from Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh [we makes India look very good, spreading have] the Tibetan border with India. What is your take on China’s treatment the wisdom of Nalanda University of human rights and democracy in Hong [established to emulate the revered [T]he Indian government should take Kong? Nalanda Buddhist monastery] around the the initiative to resolve the issue of Tibet world. He has been the best messenger peacefully with the Chinese government. on that.

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QUOTES

“We are all the same in being human. Acknowledging this helps reduce suspicion. Whoever I meet, I feel is just another human brother or sister. This has been my practice for 70 years. I appeal to you who live in modern India not to neglect your ancient wisdom. Remember that materialistic development by itself will not bring inner peace,”His Holiness the Dalai Lama during his visit at Inter-Faith Conclave at Guru Nanak Dev University on 9 November 2019.

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“I try to share with other people that the ultimate source of happiness is within us; it’s not to be found in money and fame. I promote fundamental human values on the basis of scientific findings and common sense. Evidence that it is basic human nature to be compassionate is a source of hope. This is important, not in terms of the next life or liberation, but here and now,” His Holiness the Dalai Lama during Launch of Dalai Lama Chair for Nalanda Studies at Goa University on 11 December 2019.

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“Today also marks Human Rights Day and the 71st anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. However, today in Tibet, the fundamental human rights enshrined in this landmark document are trampled upon by the Chinese Communist Party. Tibetans are subjected to harsh treatment for speaking up for their rights, which are also enshrined in the Chinese constitution, such as freedom of religion, language, and preservation of the environment,” Kashag’s Statement on the 30th Anniversary of the Conferment of the Nobel Peace Prize on His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet on 10 December 2019.

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“As I have already stated above, this is a day of outstanding significance and in places across the world people are commemorating this festive occasion with the remembrance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s deeds. The absolutely best way to repay gratitude to His Holiness would be to carry out his wishes with a sincerity of purpose. All Tibetan people should therefore unite as one and pool together whatever capabilities they may have as part of their diligent efforts to achieve the common fundamental good,” Statement of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile on the 30th Anniversary of the Conferment of the Nobel Peace Prize on His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet on 10 December 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