President Joe Biden Signs Resolve Tibet Act, Strengthens America’s Tibet Policy on 12 July 2024

By  —  B T NEWSDESK

US President Joe Biden signed into law ‘‘Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act’’ that bolsters America’s Tibet policy through further amendments of the Tibetan Policy Act of 2002 and aims to facilitate the resolution of the longstanding conflict between Tibet and China.

Known as the Resolve Tibet Act, in short, the act seeks to foster substantive dialogue without preconditions between the PRC government and the Dalai Lama, his representatives, or democratically elected leaders of the Tibetan community or explore activities to improve prospects for dialogue that leads to a negotiated agreement on Tibet. Additionally, it endeavours to collaborate with other nations to achieve a negotiated settlement concerning Tibet.

The act asserts that officials of the People’s Republic of China and the Chinese Communist Party are historically inaccurate in claiming that Tibet has been part of China since ancient times. The act further specifies that the United States’ public diplomacy initiatives should actively combat disinformation propagated by the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Chinese Communist Party concerning Tibet, including falsehoods about the historical background of Tibet, its people, and its institutions, including those associated with the Dalai Lama.

This pivotal act restrengthening America’s policy on Tibet follows other significant acts, such as the Tibetan Policy and Support Act of 2019 and the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act of 2018. Earlier in March, on the occasion of the 65th Tibetan Uprising Day, a resolution was introduced in the Congress in a show of bipartisan solidarity reaffirming support for the Tibetan people amidst ongoing human rights violations perpetrated by the Chinese government in Tibet.

The sponsors of the bills in the house were Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA), Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX) and the cosponsors in house include  Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC), Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL) , Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-At Large), Rep. Troy Carter, (D-LA), Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI), Rep. Joe Courtney (D-CT), Rep. Betty McCollum (D-MN), Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA), Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Rep. Young Kim (R-CA), Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD-8), Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA), Rep. Zachary Nunn (R-IA), Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA), Rep. John Larson, (D-CT), Rep. Michael Lawler (R-NY), Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Rep. Thomas Kean (R-NJ), Rep. Donald  Payne Jr. (D-NJ-10), Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-7), Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA), Rep. Katie Porter (D-CA), Rep. Becca Balint (D-VT-At Large), Rep. Mike Quigley (D-IL), Rep. Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), Rep. Jill Tokuda (D-HI), Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Rep. Susan Wild (D-PA), Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV), Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Rep. Yadira Caraveo (D-CO), Rep. Dean Phillips (D-MN), Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-VA), Rep. Andrea Salinas (D-OR), Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT), and Rep. Nick LaLota (R-NY).

Sen. Merkley, Jeff (D-OR), Sen. Young, Todd (R-IN) sponsored the Resolve Tibet Bill in Senate and the co-sponsors include Sen. Ben Cardin (D-MD), Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Sen. Mike Braun (R-IN), Sen. Christopher Coons (D-DE), Sen. Mitt Romney (R-UT), Sen. Tina Smith (D-MN), Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), Sen. Jim Risch, (R-ID), Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID), Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Sen. Peter Welch (D-VT), Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), and Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA).

In his official statement, President Joe Biden declared, “Today I have signed into law S. 318, the “Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act” (the “Act”). I share the Congress’s bipartisan commitment to advancing the human rights of Tibetans and supporting efforts to preserve their distinct linguistic, cultural, and religious heritage. My administration will continue to call on the People’s Republic of China to resume direct dialogue, without preconditions, with the Dalai Lama, or his representatives, to seek a settlement that resolves differences and leads to a negotiated agreement on Tibet.”

Quotes from Congress members on the bill: 

Representative Jim McGovern: The United States has never accepted that Tibet was part of China since ancient times, as the CCP falsely claims. This legislation clarifies US policy and highlights the unique language, religion, and culture of the Tibetan people. It directs US diplomacy to push back against CCP propaganda. In addition, it ensures Tibetans have a say in their own future. This bill stresses the need for dialogue between the CCP and other democratically elected leaders of Tibet. Any resolution must include the wishes and voice of the Tibetan people… Passing this bill demonstrates America’s resolve that the CCP’s status quo in Tibet is not acceptable and I can think of no greater message or gift to the Dalai Lama and the people of Tibet than the swift passage of  this bill to get to the president’s desk as soon as possible to help put the people of Tibet in charge of their own future.”

Representative Michael McCaul: “Our bipartisan bill will refresh U.S. policy towards Tibet and push for negotiations that advance freedom for the Tibetan people and a peaceful resolution to the CCP’s conflict with the Dalai Lama,” said Young. “Congressional passage of this legislation further demonstrates America’s resolve that the CCP’s status quo – both in Tibet and elsewhere – is not acceptable. I look forward to this important effort becoming law and working with my colleagues in the Senate and with the Administration to ensure swift and effective implementation.”

“Let the overwhelming passage of our strong, bipartisan bill be a clear message to the Tibetan people: America stands with you on the side of human dignity, and we support you in your quest to secure the basic rights to which you are entitled under international law,” said McGovern, Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee and a member of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China. “The People’s Republic of China has systematically denied Tibetans the right to self-determination and continues to deliberately erase Tibetan religion, culture, and language. The ongoing oppression of the Tibetan people is a grave tragedy, and our bill provides further tools that empower both America and the international community to stand up for justice and peace.”

“Tibetans, like all people, have the right to religious freedom – which includes freedom from CCP surveillance, censorship, and detention,” said House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman McCaul. “If the CCP truly does respect ‘sovereignty’ as it claims to do then it will engage in peaceful dialogue with the Tibetans to resolve this conflict, not force the Tibetans to accept a CCP proposal. Passing this bipartisan bill demonstrates America’s resolve that the CCP’s status quo in Tibet is not acceptable.”

Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass., one of the lead sponsors of the bill, said: “A vote for this bill is a vote to recognize the rights of the Tibetan people. And it is a vote to insist on resolving the dispute between Tibet and the People’s Republic of China peacefully, in accordance with international law, through dialogue, without preconditions. There is still an opportunity to do this. But time is running out.”

Rep. Young Kim, R-Calif., said: “This bill ensures that Tibetans have a say in their own future. It stresses the need for a direct dialogue between the CCP and the democratically elected leaders of Tibet, and that any resolution must be peaceful and include the voice of the Tibetan people. Tibetans are democracy-loving people who wish to freely practice their religion and have their distinct identity acknowledged and respected. I’m proud to play a small part in supporting this dream for the Tibetan people.”

Rep. Kathy Manning, D-N.C., said: “Since 2010 Beijing has also refused to meet its international obligations to engage the Dalai Lama and his representatives to resolve the Tibet issue through dialogue. At the same time Beijing has unleashed a disinformation campaign to mislead the world about Tibet and its history. For this reason, we must pass H.R.533, which calls the PRC out for its repression and its unwillingness to engage the Tibetan people.”

Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., said: “Amid these threats to Tibetans in Tibet, the Chinese Communist Party also seeks to extend its repressive reach abroad, targeting for surveillance and harassment Tibetan diaspora communities in the United States, in India and in Nepal. The Chinese Communist Party has long engaged in crimes against humanity in Tibet and against Tibetans, plain and simple.”

Honourable Chief Guest, CM of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang, during a celebration marking his 89th birthday at the courtyard of Thekchen Choeling Tsuglakhang in Dharamshala on 6 July 2024.

By  —  Shyamal Sinha

On 6 July 2024, the occasion of the 89th birthday anniversary of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tibetans led by the Central Tibetan Administration gathered at the Tsuglagkhang courtyard to commemorate the biggest celebration of the Tibetan community.

The presence of the Chief Guest, the Honourable Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang, and other distinguished guests graced the event. These included the Speaker of Sikkim Legislative Assembly, Mingma Norbu Sherpa, Sri Tapir Gao, a member of Lok Sabha Representing the Arunachal East constituency and accompanied by several other dignitary officials and ministers of Sikkim. Additionally, the event was attended by Bhutila Karpoche, Honourable Deputy Speaker of the Ontario Legislative Assembly, Canada and Namgyal Gangshontsang, Mayor of Oetwil am See, a municipality in the district of Meilen in the canton of Zürich in Switzerland.

Following Sikyong Penpa Tsering and Speaker Sonam Tenphel’s delivery of the statements of the Kashag and Tibetan Parliament, respectively, distinguished guests extended their best wishes to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on his 89th birthday, first by Namgyal Gangshontsang, Mayor of Oetwil am See, in his remarks, he conveyed greetings and gratitude on behalf of the community. He further highlights the profound impact of His Holiness’s lifelong dedication to the Tibetan cause and global humanitarian efforts, while also recognising the collaborative efforts of the Central Tibetan Administration in achieving these goals.

The Chief guest initiated his speech by conveying his sincere appreciation for the invitation extended by the Central Tibetan Administration and recognised the worldwide observance of His Holiness’s birthday on 6 July. He commended Dharamshala, especially McLeod Ganj, as a symbol of compassion and wisdom fostered under His Holiness’s guidance. In acknowledging His Holiness’s challenging upbringing and subsequent global influence, he underscored the universal teachings of Buddhism, peace, and compassion espoused by His Holiness. The esteemed guest warmly regarded His Holiness’s well-being and longevity, noting Sikkim’s pride in hosting His Holiness and reaping the benefits of his visits. The chief minister emphasised the transformative influence of His Holiness’s teachings in promoting harmony and sustainability, pledging unwavering support and disseminating His Holiness’s principles for a peaceful world.

Furthermore, the special guest Bhutila Karpoche, in her address, reflected upon the tireless hard work of His Holiness for Tibetans and expressed gratitude, especially praising His Holiness’ visionary leadership since his exile from Tibet at 24. She emphasised His Holiness’s global stature as a revered spiritual leader. She highlighted recent commendations, including His Holiness’ designation as the preeminent Buddhist leader by the Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace and his honorary Canadian citizenship. She called upon individuals to uphold His Holiness’s principles of peace, harmony, and unity as a tribute while conveying heartfelt wishes for his enduring health and longevity and ended with her address.

In his address, Sri Tapir Gao expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the life and teachings of His Holiness. He highlighted the global impact of His Holiness’s peace, compassion, and understanding principles. Reflecting on His Holiness’s remarkable journey, Sri Tapir Gao emphasised the historic significance of His Holiness’s arrival in India, symbolising a deep bond of friendship and solidarity between India and Tibet.

The event saw lively cultural performances from Tibetan schools, regional Tibetan associations in Dharamshala and the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts(TIPA). It also saw the honouring of the Chief guests and the guests with a memento by the Tibetan Parliament in Exile and Kashag.

Six civil servants were felicitated by the Tibetan Public Service Commission on their completion of 25 years of service. Similarly, two civil servants were awarded with excellence awards for their distinctive service.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering delivering the Kashag’s statement on the occasion of His Holiness’ 89th birthday.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering presenting a Thangka to Chief guest CM of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering presenting a Thangka to Sri Migmar Norbu Sherpa, Speaker Sikkim Legislative Assembly.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering presenting Thangka to Sri Tapir Gao, a member of Lok Sabha Representing the Arunachal East constituency.

The celebration marking his 89th birthday at the courtyard of Thekchen Choeling Tsuglakhang in Dharamshala on 6 July 2024.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama Arrives in the United States, More than 10,000 People Gathered to Receive His Holiness

By  —  BT NEWSDESK

Washington DC: On 23 June 2024, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama safely arrived at Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, following a brief stopover in Zurich, Switzerland. Upon arrival at the airport, His Holiness received a warm welcome reception from Representative Dr. Namgyal Choedup and Chinese Liaison Officer Tsultrim Gyatso from the Office of Tibet-Washington, DC.

Dr Varun Jeph, Deputy Consul General; Avdhesh Kumar, Vice Consul (Estt. & Protocol); and Abhimanyu Gehlaut from the Consulate General of India in New York, along with former Kalons (Ministers) of the Central Tibetan Administration, Sera Jey Abbot Tashi Tsedar, Akya Rinpoche, and around four thousand New York and New Jersey-based reverent lamas and followers of His Holiness gathered at the airport to receive His Holiness and seek His blessings.

From the Airport, His Holiness the Dalai Lama and a motorcade arranged by the U.S government drove towards the Park Hyatt Hotel, where a large number of devotees, followers, and Tibetans lined the road to greet and welcome His Holiness with goodwill messages on placards, auspicious offerings, and white scarves (khatag) and incenses in their hands.

His Holiness was then received by Sakya Gongma Trichen Dorjichang Rinpoche at the entrance of Park Hyatt, along with Gyalyum Kusho; Vishal Jayeshbhai Harsh, Consul (HOC & CPIO); Rato Khen Rinpoche; Geshe Thupten Lhundup; Ven. Tenzin Chosang, the head of Namgyal Monastery; and sister of Gyalwa Karmapa Ngodup Palzom. The reception was also attended by Tibetan Parliamentarians Tenzing Jigme, Thondup Tsering, Khenpo Kada Ngedup Sonam, the Office of Tibet’s Tibetan Liaison Officer Kunga Tashi, and Norbu Tsering, President of the Tibetan Association of New York and New Jersey.

In total, more than ten thousand people and a large number of media personnel from various news outlets attended the reception, making it a large and widely covered event.

However, according to His Holiness’ personal physician and the secretary of Gaden Phodrang, there will be no public engagements except for medical treatment.

-Report filed by Office of Tibet, Washington DC

His Holiness the Dalai Lama Congratulates the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa.

By  —  Shyamal Sinha

His Holiness the Dalai Lama has written to Cyril Ramaphosa to congratulate him on being re-elected President of South Africa following the recent elections.

“South Africa has been a stable, democratic country since the end of apartheid,” he wrote. “Its diverse multinational society, encompassing a wide variety of cultures, languages, and religions living in peace together, sets an example for others to emulate. I hope that under your leadership the country will continue to prosper and develop and that you will also strive to improve the lives of those who are less privileged.

“May I wish you every success in meeting the challenges and opportunities that may lie ahead and in fulfilling the aspirations of the people of South Africa.”

A group of Delhi based diplomats and experts visit Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile on 17 June 2024.

By  —  Shyamal Sinha

A group led by FNF consisting of Delhi based diplomats and experts visited the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile and held a meeting with Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel and Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang at the parliamentary secretariat earlier today on 17 June 2024. The visiting guests were taken on a tour of the Tibetan parliament hall where they were briefed on the parliament’s evolution, composition, and functioning.

The group consisted of ERIK ILLIG, Managing Director at Wilhelm Textile; Marius Osswald, Political Minister Counsellor for German Embassy in New Delhi; D Dhanuraj PhD, Founder-Chairman of the Centre for Public Policy Research, Kochi; Dr. Carsten Kicin, Head, Regional Office, FNF South Asia; Frank Hoffmann, Regional Project Manager, FNF South Asia; Nupur Hasija, Senior Program Manager, FNF South Asia; Shiksha Khanna, Regional Internal Auditor, FNF South Asia; and Ritu Khanna, Freelance German-English Translator.

Upon their arrival, the visiting guests were greeted by Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel and Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang. During the guided tour of the parliament hall that followed, Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang explained the composition of the Tibetan parliament. She detailed how the parliament prioritises budgetary matters and scrutinises the executive’s undertakings during its bi-annual sessions. The guests were briefed on the functioning and evolution of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile during this informative session.

In addition to highlighting the environmental significance of the Tibetan Plateau, the Deputy Speaker emphasised China’s systematic targeting of key elements of Tibetan culture, such as religion and language. She also expressed concerns about demographic changes in Tibet, the tragic self-immolations of Tibetans protesting shrinking freedoms, and severe human rights abuses in the region. The Deputy Speaker appealed to the visiting guests for support in amplifying the voices of Tibetans within Tibet.

Following this, a meeting took place at the Standing Committee’s hall where the Speaker expressed heartfelt appreciation for the FNF’s contribution to the flourishing of Tibetan democracy. He also praised the pledges made by many candidates in the European Parliament to support Tibet. The Speaker briefed the visiting guests about the upcoming visits of the Tibetan parliamentary delegation to Europe and other advocacy programs.

Thereafter, a Q&A session was held where the Deputy Speaker answered the questions of the guests.

-Report filed by Tibetan Parliament in Exile

The visiting guest delegate speaking.

Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel speaking to the visiting guests.

A group of Delhi based diplomats and experts visit Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile on 17 June 2024.

(File image) Sikyong Penpa Tsering with Shri Kiren Rijiju

By  —  Shyamal Sinha

On behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration and the Tibetan people, Sikyong Penpa Tsering extended heartfelt congratulations to Shri Kiren Rijiju on his recent appointment as the Government of India’s Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minister of Minority Affairs.

Sikyong wrote, “Your appointment to these pivotal positions is a testament to the exceptional leadership you have consistently demonstrated throughout your distinguished career spanning two decades. Your unwavering commitment to service and your astute political acumen have rightfully earned you this esteemed position.”

“As you undertake the responsibilities of your new positions, we wish to convey our heartfelt appreciation for your profound respect for His Holiness the Dalai Lama and your enduring friendship with the Tibetan people. Your advocacy and meaningful engagement on matters concerning Tibet have significantly contributed to shaping policies that uphold our community’s well-being. Notably, initiatives such as the Tibetan Rehabilitation Policy of 2014, with your support, have proven instrumental in providing sustenance and support to Tibetan refugees.”

While mentioning His Holiness’ deep admiration for India’s rich civilisational wisdom, notably the ancient Nalanda tradition, and His Holiness’ commitment to reviving ancient Indian traditions for the benefit of humanity, Sikyong expressed, “We remain deeply appreciative of the initiatives spearheaded by both the central and state governments in support of this noble cause.”

“As always, your unwavering support remains a profound source of strength and hope for the Tibetan people, both within Tibet and in exile.” the letter concluded.