Tibet Custom

The Statement of the Kashag on the Fifty-First Anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising Day

Admin — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:37:26 +0000

Today — 10 March 2010 — marks the 51st anniversary of the Tibetan people's peaceful uprising against the Chinese authorities. On this momentous day, the Kashag pays homage to the brave men and women of Tibet who have laid down their lives for our spiritual and temporal cause. The Kashag also, in solidarity with those Tibetan compatriots who are presently undergoing torture inside Tibet, extends its best greetings and commiserations to all of them.

As detailed in the Kashag's 10 March Statement of the previous year, we have witnessed both positive and negative developments during the last over 50 years. On the one hand, all Tibetans living inside and outside Tibet have endured tremendous hardships and our spirituality, polity and race have suffered irreparable damages. However, on the other hand, Tibetans inside Tibet of all ages have, without losing heart and inner strength, kept alive our struggle for truth all these years. In exile also, we have made great spiritual and political accomplishments, particularly in the fields of the preservation and promotion of Tibetan spirituality and culture. Today, while remembering all these things, the Kashag would especially like to express our deep sense of gratitude to His Holiness the Dalai Lama because all the positive results that we have been able to accomplish during these years is due to His Holiness the Dalai Lama's leadership.

From the last 10 March anniversary until now, the Tibetans in exile and their administration have been organising numerous programmes, or commemorative events, to mark the 50 years of their life in exile and to express their heartfelt "Thank You" to their host countries. As a part of this programme, an informal meeting of the employees of Central Tibetan administration (CTA) was held recently to reflect upon the past experiences and to propose ideas regarding our future plans. A summary of what transpired in this meeting, which has already been brought to the attention of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, includes, among other things, the CTA employees re-pledging themselves to the path of peace and non-violence in carrying forward our struggle for truth until the eventual resolution of the Tibet issue. It is our firm belief that the larger Tibetan population inside and outside Tibet will join in this solemn pledge.

Of abiding concern to us is that no positive developments have taken place in Tibet since a new crisis developed on 10 March 2008. Therefore, the Kashag would like to urge the People's Republic of China (PRC) to put an immediate halt to their inhuman and unlawful actions, including repression and violations of human rights in Tibet, as well as handing down death and long-term prison sentences to the Tibetan people without due process of law. The Kashag would also like to make an emphatic appeal to them to release all the innocent Tibetan prisoners, including the young Panchen Lama — Gendun Choekyi Nyima. Furthermore, the Kashag would like to appeal to the Tibetans inside Tibet to exercise utmost restraint and caution.

In the on-going dialogue process, we have presented to the concerned officials of the PRC the Memorandum on Genuine Autonomy for the Tibetan People on 31 October 2008. In this memorandum, we have, besides articulating the fundamental aspirations of the Tibetan people inside and outside Tibet, requested for the full implementation of the National Regional Autonomy provisions as enshrined in the constitution. The Chinese side has, however, sought to distort or misrepresent the requests we have made in it. In order to offer clarifications to these, as well as to make a fresh request of two points, the envoys of His Holiness the Dalai Lama visited Beijing this year and conducted ninth round of talks with their Chinese counterparts on 30 and 31 January. In this latest round of talks, the envoys, as advised by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, put forward these two points for the Chinese government's consideration:

1) The ultimate concern of His Holiness is only the welfare of the six-million Tibetan people. Regarding this, the Chinese central government contends that the Tibetan people in Tibet are leading a happy life to their satisfaction and that there is no such issue as the Tibet issue that needs to be resolved. We believe, however, that most of the Tibetans in Tibet face tremendous hardships. There is, among them, a strong feeling of dissatisfaction or discontentment in every respect — be it religion, politics, economy, language, culture or social conditions. In the light of such divergent views between the two sides, there is a need for us to collectively undertake a careful investigation of the situation on the ground so as to understand what the reality is. We would like to, therefore, request the Chinese government to undertake the proposed investigation in a manner that affords all Tibetans the real opportunity to express their true feelings without any fear and doubts in their minds. If, as a result of such an investigation, it is found that most of the Tibetan people do not believe there is a problem in Tibet and that they are completely satisfied with their lot, then this is what His Holiness the Dalai Lama is calling for. There is, then, no need for both sides to argue about the issue of Tibet in the future. Whereas if we find that most of the Tibetans are dissatisfied, then the Chinese central government should also — treading the path of "seeking truth from facts" — acknowledge that there is a problem in Tibet and start discussions to collectively find the ways and means of solving the problem.

2) The allegation that His Holiness the Dalai Lama or his exile organisation has instigated the spontaneous and peaceful uprising that rocked the whole of the Tibetan areas since 10 March 2008 is not true. Hence, this allegation is not acceptable to us. This has been put across to the Chinese leadership during the informal discussion that took place in Shenzhen. As a result, during the seventh round of talks, the Chinese central government accepted the reality by changing its stance from the "Three Stops" to "Four Not-to-Supports". Of late, however, it has begun to make the same kind of allegations against us. A need has, therefore, arisen for the Chinese central government to clarify now as to whether its viewpoint is same as it was during the seventh round of talks, or has it changed since then. If it has indeed changed, then the Chinese central government should undertake an in-depth investigation — both inside and outside Tibet — to determine scientifically the truth of these accusations. The verdict of such an investigation should be accepted by both the parties concerned. Moreover, we should make amends if we are found to be wrong. If we are not found to be wrong, then the Chinese central government must stop spreading lies, or making such baseless allegations, both domestically and internationally, and issue a clarification to this effect.

The Chinese government didn't provide any clear answers to these two points and they also failed to exactly communicate our requests in its subsequent press briefings or statements. As for us, we will continue to press ahead with these two requests we made in a sincere and honest manner. If the views held by the Chinese central government — and what they say — have any truth in them, then it should not hesitate to subject these to investigation. All of us can vouch for the fact that once a proper investigation is undertaken, it will help clear things for the future, thus making it easier for all to see the reality.

During the past nine rounds of talks, the envoys of His Holiness the Dalai Lama have stated categorically to the Chinese government that they have nothing to talk about the personal issue of His Holiness or about the issue of a few people surrounding him. The sole agenda of the dialogue process was to discuss about the welfare of the six-million Tibetan people. In none of these exchanges had they raised the personal issue of His Holiness. We have made this amply clear earlier and we would like to reiterate this today. Therefore, the Chinese government's saying, through its official statements, that their purpose of engaging in dialogue with us is only to talk about the personal issue of His Holiness and not about the welfare of the Tibetan people is not true. This is simply irrelevant. Although there is no change whatsoever in our determination to engage in dialogue with the PRC until the issue of Tibet is resolved once and for all, the Kashag would like to emphatically state that the agenda of the dialogue process should be only about the welfare of six-million Tibetans and nothing else. Therefore we reiterate that there is nothing to discuss about the personal welfare of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Considering the Tibet problem to be a domestic issue that has to be resolved within the framework of the PRC, we are always engaging with the Chinese central government. However, the Chinese side continues to talk about His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the issue of Tibet and exert enormous pressure in connection with these issues everywhere — be it in their bilateral relations with other countries or in various international forums. It is clear to all of us that this is what actually drives the issue of Tibet towards becoming an internationalised issue.

Our struggle is based on truth and non-violence. We have no doubt that if all Tibetans living inside and outside Tibet put their complete faith in the non-violent path that we have chosen and practise, then the truth of the issue of Tibet will prevail sooner rather than later. Today, there are an increasing number of justice-loving countries, peoples as well as religious and political leaders, showing great concern and support to the issue of Tibet. A significantly large number of Chinese intellectuals from Mainland China and from abroad are now beginning to appreciate and support His Holiness the Dalai Lama's Middle-Way policy. Moreover, the truth about the Chinese government's wrong policies in Tibet is becoming ever more evident these days. Particularly, the mutually beneficial Middle-Way policy does not envisage victory for oneself and defeat for others. Envied by all the people of the world, it has the strong support of the USA and many other like-minded countries. Tibetan intellectuals inside Tibet, across three regions of Tibet, also admire and support it. Hence, the issue of Tibet has achieved — and is continuing to achieve — great results that have both the short- and long-term benefits. While expressing our immense gratitude to His Holiness the Dalai Lama for formulating such a genuine policy, the Kashag would like to pledge before Your Holiness that we will continue to uphold this policy without any doubt in our minds in the future.

Unimaginable atrocities and cruelty of the past about 60 years have not been able to shake the spirit and determination of the Tibetan people. The Chinese government is now further sharpening its strategy of employing deceit and money to destroy the spirit and unity of the Tibetan people. The Kashag believes that the Tibetan people will not fall prey to these Chinese deceptions. The unity among all the Tibetan people, which has remained intact for a long time now, has been strengthened after the popular uprising of 2008. The Kashag would like to urge all Tibetans to make efforts to further strengthen this bond of unity and to stay clear from the incitements or machinations of the other side to drive a wedge between us Tibetans. The Kashag would like to also urge that we Tibetans should caution by refraining from indulging in internal squabbles over petty matters.

Two important issues that the Tibetans inside Tibet must give a serious thought to are: 1) Tibetan youths should be encouraged to broaden their educational horizon by concentrating on both traditional and modern education and by acquiring professional and specialised skills in their chosen fields of study; and 2) explore all possible ways and means to save the delicate environment of the Tibetan plateau from further degradation. These are non-political issues that have a strong bearing on the short- and long-term benefits of both the Tibetan and Chinese peoples. Therefore, it is very important for both sides to make collective efforts towards these ends. Similarly, everyone should make best efforts to put into practice the advices His Holiness the Dalai Lama give to the people of world in general and to the people of Tibet in particular, the advices of both spiritual and temporal aspect that have huge bearing not just in this life but also in many lives to come.

If the Tibetans, who are currently divided into many administrative units, could be brought under a single autonomous administration, it will be more helpful in devising a uniform policy to bring about all-round development in the fields of education, culture, health, etc. It will, in particular, help protect the unique culture and identity of Tibet. The request to bring all Tibetans under a single administration has now and again been made to the Chinese government since 1951. As such, during the recent Fifth Work Forum on Tibet, delegates from all Tibetan areas were summoned to deliberate upon a uniform development plan for all Tibetans. The Forum has also identified the fact that the Tibetans in general, and the Tibetan farmers and herders in particular, are lagging behind as far as the standard of living is concerned. We must take note of these developments indeed. We await the Chinese government to actually implement a uniform development programme for all the Tibetan-inhabited areas.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama will turn 75 on 6 July 2010. The Kashag plans to celebrate his coming birthday more elaborately than the previous ones with major spiritual activities. Similarly, our exile democracy will complete 50 years on 2 September, this year. Therefore, we are planning to commemorate this day as well. We hope that all Tibetans will bear these upcoming events in mind. Although it is very difficult for the Tibetans inside Tibet to openly come out and celebrate these upcoming events, we believe they will be able to join us Tibetan exiles in their hearts and minds.

To conclude, the Kashag prays for the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the spontaneous fulfilment of all his wishes. May the truth of the issue of Tibet prevail soon!

The Kashag

N.B. This has been translated from the original statement issued in Tibetan. If there is any discrepancy between the two, please treat the Tibetan version as authoritative and final.

source tibet.net

Statement of His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the 51st Anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising Day

Admin — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:34:47 +0000

His Holiness the Dalai Lama delivers his statement on the 51st anniversary of the Tibetan National
Uprising Day, in Dharamsala, India, on 10 March 2010

Today marks the 51st anniversary of the Tibetan people's peaceful uprising in 1959 against Communist China's repression in Tibet, as well as the second anniversary of the peaceful protests that erupted across Tibet in March 2008. On this occasion, I pay homage to those heroic Tibetan men and women, who sacrificed their lives for the cause of Tibet, and pray for an early end to the sufferings of those still oppressed in Tibet.

Despite the great hardships Tibetans have faced for many decades, they have been able to keep up their courage and determination, preserve their compassionate culture and maintain their unique identity. It is inspiring that today a new generation of Tibetans continues to keep Tibet's just cause alive. I salute the courage of those Tibetans still enduring fear and oppression.

Whatever circumstances we find ourselves in, it is the responsibility of all Tibetans to maintain equality, harmony and unity among the various nationalities, while continuing to protect our unique identity and culture. Many Tibetans in Tibetan areas are working in various responsible posts in the party, government and military, helping Tibetans in whatever way they can. We recognise the positive contribution that many of them have made up to now, and obviously when Tibet achieves meaningful autonomy in the future, they will have to continue to fulfil such responsibilities.

Let me reiterate that once the issue of Tibet is resolved, I will not take any political position nor will members of the Tibetan Administration in exile hold any positions in the government in Tibet. I have repeatedly made this clear in the past. To understand the situation of the Tibetans in exile and their aspirations, I invite Tibetan officials serving in various Tibetan autonomous areas to visit Tibetan communities living in the free world, either officially or in a private capacity, to observe the situation for themselves.

Wherever Tibetans in exile have settled, we have been able to preserve and promote our distinct cultural and spiritual traditions, while generating awareness of the Tibetan cause. Unlike other refugees, we have been relatively successful because we have also been able to give our children a sound modern education, while bringing them up according to our traditional values. And because the heads of all four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism and the Bon religion are in exile we have been able to re-establish various institutions for religious training and practice. In these institutions over ten thousand monks and nuns are free to pursue their vocations. We have been readily able to provide educational opportunities for those monks, nuns and students who continue to come from Tibet. At the same time the unprecedented spread of Tibetan Buddhism in both East and West and the prospect of continuing to flourish in the future gives us hope that it may yet survive. This is some solace to us during this most critical period in Tibet's history.

Today, the Chinese authorities are conducting various political campaigns, including a campaign of patriotic re-education, in many monasteries in Tibet. They are putting the monks and nuns in prison-like conditions, depriving them the opportunity to study and practise in peace. These conditions make the monasteries function more like museums and are intended to deliberately annihilate Buddhism.

Tibetan culture based on Buddhist values of compassion and non-violence benefits not only Tibetans, but also people in the world at large, including the Chinese. Therefore, we Tibetans should not place our hopes in material progress alone, which is why it is essential that all Tibetans, both inside and outside Tibet, should broaden their modern education hand in hand with our traditional values. Above all, as many young Tibetans as possible should strive to become experts and skilled professionals.

It is important that Tibetans maintain friendly relations not only with people of all nationalities, but also amongst themselves. Tibetans should not engage in petty disputes with each other. I earnestly appeal to them instead to resolve any differences with patience and understanding.

Whether the Chinese government acknowledges it or not, there is a serious problem in Tibet. As the world knows, this is evidenced by the fact that there is a huge military presence and restrictions on travel in Tibet. It is good for neither party. We have to take every opportunity to solve it. For more than 30 years, I have tried my best to enter into talks with the People's Republic of China to resolve the issue of Tibet through the Middle-Way Approach that is of benefit to us both. Although I have clearly articulated Tibetan aspirations, which are in accordance with the constitution of the People's Republic of China and the law on national regional autonomy, we have not obtained any concrete result. Judging by the attitude of the present Chinese leadership, there is little hope that a result will be achieved soon. Nevertheless, our stand to continue with the dialogue remains unchanged.

It is a matter of pride and satisfaction that our mutually beneficial Middle-Way Approach and the justice of the Tibetan struggle have gained growing understanding and support year by year from many political and spiritual leaders, including the President of the United States of America, reputed non-governmental organisations, the international community, and in particular from Chinese intellectuals. It is evident that the Tibetan issue is not a dispute between the Chinese and Tibetan peoples, but has come about because of the ultra-leftist policies of the Chinese Communist authorities.

Since the demonstrations in Tibet in 2008, Chinese intellectuals inside and outside China have written more than 800 unbiased articles on the Tibetan issue. During my visits abroad, wherever I go, when I meet Chinese in general, particularly the intellectuals and students, they offer their genuine sympathy and support. Since the Sino-Tibetan problem ultimately has to be resolved by the two peoples themselves, I try to reach out to the Chinese people whenever I can to create a mutual understanding between us. Therefore, it is important for Tibetans everywhere to build closer relations with the Chinese people and try to make them aware of the truth of the Tibetan cause and the present situation in Tibet.

Let us also remember the people of East Turkestan who have experienced great difficulties and increased oppression and the Chinese intellectuals campaigning for greater freedom who have received severe sentences. I would like to express my solidarity and stand firmly with them.

It is also essential that the 1.3 billion Chinese people have free access to information about their own country and elsewhere, as well as freedom of expression and the rule of law. If there were greater transparency inside China, there would be greater trust, which would be the proper basis for promoting harmony, stability and progress. This is why everyone concerned must exert their efforts in this direction.

As a free spokesperson of the Tibetan people I have repeatedly spelled out their fundamental aspirations to the leaders of the People's Republic of China. Their lack of a positive response is disappointing. Although the present authorities may cling to their hard-line stand, judging by the political changes taking place on the international stage as well as changes in the perspective of the Chinese people, there will be a time when truth will prevail. Therefore, it is important that everyone be patient and not give up.

We acknowledge the Central Government's new decision taken at the Fifth Tibet Work Forum to implement their policies uniformly in all Tibetan areas to ensure future progress and development, which Premier Wen Jiabao also reiterated at the recent annual session of the National People's Congress. This accords with our repeatedly expressed wish for a single administration for all those Tibetan areas. Similarly, we appreciate the development work that has taken place in Tibetan areas, particularly in the nomadic and farming regions. However, we must be vigilant that such progress does not damage our precious culture and language and the natural environment of the Tibetan plateau, which is linked to the well-being of the whole of Asia.

On this occasion, I wish to take the opportunity to offer my sincere thanks to the leaders of various nations, their intellectuals, the general public, Tibet Support Groups and others who cherish truth and justice for continuing to support the Tibetan cause despite the Chinese government's pressure and harassment. Above all I wish to pay my heartfelt gratitude to the Government of India, the various State Governments, and the people of India for their continued generous support.

Finally, I offer prayers for the happiness and well-being of all sentient beings.

The Dalai Lama

10 March 2010

source tibet.net

ISSUES RAISED BY ENVOYS OF H.H. THE DALAI LAMA DURING THE NINTH ROUND OF DIALOGUE WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF THE CHINESE LEADERSHIP

Admin — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 18:21:31 +0000

The Envoys conveyed a three-point message to the representatives of the Chinese leadership.

Firstly, a seven-point Note was presented that expanded on the Memorandum on Genuine Autonomy for All Tibetans that was presented during the eighth round of talks. The Envoys reiterated our hope that the Chinese Central Government will give due consideration and have meaningful dialogue on this. The Chinese Central Government has made different comments and expression of concerns concerning the Memorandum and the Note was intended to address these and to offer some constructive suggestions for a way forward in the dialogue process. The Note was also intended to prevent the chance of misinterpretation and misconception by the general public. The seven points in the Note include respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity of the PRC, respecting the Constitution of the PRC, respecting the "Three Adherences," respecting the hierarchy and authority of the Chinese Central Government, Concerns raised by the Central Government on specific competencies referred to the Memorandum, recognising the core issue, and offering His Holiness the Dalai Lama's cooperation for a mutually beneficial solution.

The Envoys suggested that through consultation if some of the issues in the Memorandum that are easier to be implemented are taken up in stages, it would certainly help in the gradual implementation of the basic issues.

Secondly, the Envoys emphasised that His Holiness' sole concern is the wellbeing of the six million Tibetans in Tibet. They stated that we have never raised any personal issues of His Holiness the Dalai Lama or the welfare of the few people around him.

With regard to this, the Chinese Central Government contends that most of the Tibetan people are in a happy and satisfactory situation, and that there is no Tibetan issue. Our perception is that most of the Tibetans are in a situation where they face limitless suffering and where they do not have a satisfactory religious, political, economic, language and culture, and social situation. In the light of these two differing perspectives, the Envoys suggested that there be a study by the two sides to determine the reality of the situation. This study needs to be undertaken under a situation where all the Tibetans can have the opportunity to participate without fear or suspicion. The two sides could mutually decide the practical ways to implement this. If the outcome of this study is that most of the Tibetans feel there is no problem and their present situation is satisfactory, that is what His Holiness the Dalai Lama is calling for. But if the outcome confirms that most of the Tibetan people are not in a satisfactory situation, the Chinese Central Government then needs to recognise that there is a problem in the spirit of seeking truth from facts, and both sides need to discuss and together find a solution.

Thirdly, the Envoys stated that during the informal session in Shenzhen in May 2008, we had rejected the allegation that His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the leadership in exile have instigated the demonstrations throughout the Tibetan areas since March 10, 2008 as they were without basis. Therefore, during the seventh round of talks, the Chinese Central Government accepted the reality by altering the "Three Stops" (which include asking us to stop activities for independence or instigating Tibetans in Tibet) to "Four Not to Support".

However, in recent times we find that the same allegations are being repeated. Therefore, the Envoys conveyed our feeling that the Chinese Central Government needed to clarify whether its position is what that was stated to us in the seventh round of talks. If there is a change, then the Chinese Central Government needs to undertake a thorough scientific investigation, in Tibet as well as in the Tibetan community in exile, into the veracity of their charge. The Envoys stated our readiness to extend every support to this investigation. If it is confirmed that the Central leadership's charge has a basis, then we will confess for the past action and commit not do so in the future. If there is no confirmation then the Central Government should rectify and halt the leveling of these allegations.

source tibet.net

Mass Lobby of UK parliament March 10th

Admin — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 10:53:48 +0000

Tibet Mass Lobby calls for an increase in UK’s diplomatic presence in China and Tibet and questions the effectiveness of British

Building on the success of last year's inaugural Tibet Mass Lobby, where 300 lobbyists, including well over 100 from the Tibetan community, descended on Westminster, a coalition of Tibet support groups are calling on their members and supporters to take part in a second Mass Lobby on 10 March.

This year, 10 March sees the 51st anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising in Lhasa. It is a day when Tibetans worldwide, both inside Tibet and in exile, mourn those who have lost their lives in the 51 year struggle for justice. Karma Chura-tsang from Tibetan Youth UK summed up the depth of feeling and commitment felt by Tibetans, saying, “Today is a day to celebrate the strength of the Tibetan people and their perseverance and to renew our resolve to fight for our country until Tibet is once again free.”

The situation inside Tibet remains tense. Since the outbreak of widespread protests and demonstrations in March 2008, there have been continued acts of Tibetan resistance and non-compliance throughout Tibet and Tibetan areas. A recent example being when Tibetans in the Amdo region of Tibet (birthplace of the Dalai Lama), defiantly flouted the Chinese authorities with public prayer ceremonies and firework displays to celebrate the meeting between President Obama and the Dalai Lama. Recent reports indicate that a new "strike hard" campaign was launched by the Chinese government in the Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR) on 2 March leading to further restrictions and clamp downs.

"There is a powerful new movement growing in Tibet. It is being lead by the younger generation and they are using creative, non-violent tactics to challenge China's occupation of their homeland", said Padma Dolma, Campaigns Co-ordinator of Students for a Free Tibet UK. "On March 10th, we will stand with our brothers and sisters in Tibet and send a message to the Chinese government that Tibetans are united in our struggle to regain our country and win our freedom."

Pempa Lobsang, Chairman of the Tibetan Community in Britain, which represents over 500 Tibetans living in the UK, added, "Even after 51 years of brutal oppression by the Chinese government, the spirit of the Tibetan people is stronger than ever and our support ever strengthening. There will come a time when China must truly face up to its responsibilities and work towards resolving the Tibetan issue. To my fellow Tibetans and to our supporters, I urge you to continue the fight, to never give up for our time will come and when it does, we must be prepared!"

Commenting on the Tibet Mass Lobby and the British government’s position on Tibet, Philippa Carrick, CEO of Tibet Society, said, “the government keeps affirming its support for the Dalai Lama and his ‘Middle Way’ approach, but despite urging China to engage with representatives of the Dalai Lama on points of substance, never follows up these good intentions with any substantive actions of its own that will bring tangible progress to the Tibetan people. This is why a coalition of UK Tibet groups are asking their members and supporters to join the Mass Lobby and call on the government to show their commitment by taking meaningful actions, such as establishing a British consulate in Lhasa. For the government to continue congratulating Beijing on simply holding yet another round of non-substantive talks is verging on window dressing and does nothing to move the issue of Tibet forward.”

This year also marks another anniversary - one that is to be condemned rather than celebrated - 60 years of China’s occupation of Tibet. In drawing attention to this, Stephanie Brigden, Director of Free Tibet, said, “World opinion strongly opposes China’s 60 year occupation of Tibet. A recent CNN poll showed that a majority of Americans believed Tibet should be free. Here in Britain we are lobbying to express our opposition to China’s ongoing brutal occupation. And inside Tibet Tibetans continue to use every opportunity to courageously show their resistance to China’s illegal occupation of their homeland. China must stop showing contempt for world opinion and end its brutal occupation of Tibet now!”

On Saturday 6 March, during the Tibet Freedom march in London, members of the coalition of Tibet support groups delivered an open letter to the new Chinese Ambassador, His Excellency Liu Xiaoming, requesting a meeting to discuss the current situation in Tibet.

A letter was also handed in to 10 Downing Street for the Prime Minister, which outlined the two Lobby Asks: calling for a British consulate to be established in Tibet and questioning the effectiveness of British foreign policy of engagement with China, saying, “These recommendations aim to press your government to stand by its commitment to protect and promote the human rights of the Tibetan people and seek a meaningful solution for Tibet.”

From a coalition of UK Tibet support groups
[London UK, Tuesday 9 March]

Live Webcast Of 51st Anniversary Of Tibetan National Uprising Day

Admin — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 21:19:01 +0000

His Holiness the Dalai Lama/Photo: OHHDL

Dharamshala: The commemoration of the 51st Anniversary of Tibetan National Uprising Day on 10 March 2010 will be broadcast live on www.tibetonline.tv at 8:30 a.m. Indian Standard Time (GMT+05).

His Holiness the Dalai Lama will deliver his statement on the occasion in Dharamsala. There will be Hindi and English translations of the statement.

Kalon Tripa Samdong Rinpoche and Mr Penpa Tsering, Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in Exile, will also address the gathering.

10th March is commemorated as the Tibetan people's peaceful uprising against the repression and occupation of Tibet by the People's Republic of China on 10 March 1959.

source tibet.net

As March 10th in Tibet looms Nepal falls into the arms of China over Tibet "issue"

Admin — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 21:15:46 +0000

The unofficial Tibetan representative of the Dalai Lama was taken into custody on March 7 by Nepalese police in a climate of increasing tension in Nepal as the 51st anniversary of Tibet�s National Uprising Day on March 10 approaches. Nepalese police are being deployed across the Kathmandu Valley in an attempt to prevent any large gatherings or vigils by Tibetans as a show of compliance with Chinese government warnings against Nepal allowing its territory to be used for any alleged anti-China activities.

The border crossing between Tibet and Nepal at the Friendship Bridge has been effectively closed in the lead-up to the anniversary, according to sources in Nepal. Flights to Lhasa were grounded on the tarmac at Kathmandu airport from Friday (March 5). Nepalese travel agents have warned that tourists may not be able to enter the Tibet Autonomous Region from Kathmandu until several days after March 10.

Over the past few weeks there have been numerous police raids on houses and hotels in the area around the Tibetan stupa, Boudhanath, a major pilgrimage destination for Tibetan Buddhists. These raids reflect an approach believed to be sanctioned by the Nepal government of harassment and extortion, which is contributing to a sense of fear and insecurity among long-staying Tibetan refugees in Nepal. The risks are even higher for new arrivals from Tibet � with two senior police officers referring to threats of deportation.

The temporary detention yesterday of Thrinley Gyatso, who serves unofficially as the representative of the Dalai Lama in Nepal and who is a senior member of the Tibetan community in Kathmandu, is believed to be a measure to intimidate the Tibetan community and prevent protests in Nepal against Chinese rule in Tibet. Thrinley Gyatso was released on the same day after several hours of questioning and verbal intimidation.

A demonstration in Lhasa on March 10, 2008 sparked a wave of protests that spread across Tibet, and resulted in an often brutal Chinese police crackdown and enhanced security presence in many Tibetan areas. In 2008, the Tibetan community in Kathmandu demonstrated its solidarity with Tibetans in Tibet by protesting repeatedly in front of the Chinese Embassy, at times provoking brutal responses by Nepal police and resulting in numerous arrests.

The 2008 protests in Tibet and Nepal coincided with Chinese government preparations for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, which included carrying the Olympic torch to the summit of Mount Everest (Chomolungma in Tibetan) on the Tibet-Nepal border. Since that time, it has become a priority of the Chinese government to stop any demonstration of dissent by Tibetans, however peaceful, in Nepal. Space for Tibetans within Nepal�s civil society is constricting due to the Chinese government�s focus on Tibetan issues in its relations with the Nepalese government, and shifting internal politics in Nepal. (See ICT report: http://www.savetibet.org/media-center/ict-news-reports/an-uncertain-welcome-how-chinas-influence-impacts-tibetans-nepal.)

One senior Nepalese police officer was quoted yesterday as saying: "We wont spare any pro-Tibetan if found guilty of provoking anger. They will be immediately arrested and handed over to the Department of Immigration for deportation." (Deputy Superintendent of Police Pradhumna Karki, quoted in the Himalayan Times today, March 8). The Himalayan Times also quoted Deputy Inspector General of Nepal Police as saying: "We will take stern action against the Tibetans if they dare to stage anti-China demonstrations [this week]." ("Security beefed up for 51st Tibetan uprising anniversary," March 8, 2010.)

The Nepalese government has adopted a hard line against expressions of Tibetan identity in Nepal, despite strong cultural and religious ties among the Himalayan peoples that have existed for centuries. Long-staying Tibetan refugees in Kathmandu and in settlements close to the Tibet-Nepal border are increasingly fearful as the Nepalese government relinquishes its historic and sovereign interests in response to incentivized political pressure from Beijing and its Nepalese sympathizers.

Mary Beth Markey, Vice President of Advocacy of the International Campaign for Tibet, said: "These disturbing developments deserve an immediate response by the international community. Nepal�s political leadership is betting that the internal benefits of assuaging China in the cause of oppressing Tibetans will be greater than the costs of abandoning principles rooted in the law and grounded in historic ties between the Himalayan peoples. While long-staying and transiting Tibetan refugees bear the brunt of this approach, bending to China on fundamental freedoms and the rule of law presents a real risk to the Nepalese people and their democratic institutions."

Over the past two years, ICT has documented the following evidence of Nepal�s shift towards China on Tibetan issues:

A change in the use of language by Nepalese authorities to describe the Tibetan refugee flow through their country, suggesting a �law and order� approach rather than the humanitarian approach that had characterized Nepal�s treatment of Tibetans over the last decades.

Continuing harassment and extortion of long-staying Tibetan refugees in Nepal, contributing to a widespread sense of fear and insecurity.

Cancellation of peaceful expressions of Tibetan identity, such as the celebration of the Dalai Lama�s birthday.

Pre-emptive arrests of Tibetans, ID checks and house searches.

Large-scale police deployment in Tibetan communities.

The harassment of Nepalese journalists for attempting to report on police actions in Tibetan communities, and a plethora of hostile articles in the Nepalese media alleging �Free Tibet� conspiracies.

A growing presence of organizations sympathetic to the Chinese government position, both secular and religious, some popularly assumed to have links with the Chinese Embassy.

The resistance of the Nepalese government to provide durable solutions for certain long-staying Tibetan refugees in Nepal, either by regularizing their legal status or allowing their resettlement to the United States through a refugees admission program proposed by the U.S. Government beginning in 2005.

A pattern of hostile coverage in the Nepalese media of the Tibetan community and their supporters.

Tibetans and their supporters march through the streets of London Sat 6th march 2010

Admin — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 21:45:44 +0000

Tibetans and their supporters march through the streets of London Sat 6th march 2010

Organised by a coalition of UK Tibet groups, this annual freedom march for Tibet marks the 51st Anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising. It is two years on from the protests and demonstrations in Tibet in the spring of 2008, that led to the death of over 200 Tibetans, with thousands more detained, summarily tried and draconian sentences being meted out. Two young Tibetans, Lobsang Gyaltsen and Mr Loyak, received death sentences and were executed in October 2009. Today over 1,000 Tibetans remain unaccounted for. This march will be one of many being staged worldwide.

Chinese policy of Cultural Genocide continues apace in Tibet & East Turkistan

Admin — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 21:00:19 +0000

China is contemplating a shift in its policy of cultural assimilation by accelerating the rate of Han Chinese migration to the outlying areas of East Turkistan and Tibet (both the Tibet region and the Tibetan ethnic areas) under Chinese control.

Under the Guise of "Economic Development & Stability" the Communist Dictatorship will attempt to submerge the traditional peoples of these area's with poor Han Chinese who they will pay money to move to these new area's.

This is not a new policy and past attempts at this kind of population management have led to unrest, instead of viewing these episodes of unrest as a sign of failure the communists have just re iterated their desire to submerge all other cultures under the Han Majority.

The corruption of the communist elite has been highlighted recently in the revelation of a communist officials diary online detailing bribe taking drinking binges and various other morally corrupt behaviour. It has long been felt by observers of the communist government in China that they will do anything to stay in power, it is certain that they are not thinking of anything else but their own survival. Everyone knows that the Han majority are suffering greatly under communist rule and a policy of subsidies to move to ethnic minority area's may well be a popular policy in the short term. In the long term communist corruption will cause many more problems. Moving populations to wipe out an ethnic minority is never going to be a simple solution. The communists are only trying to buy themselves time buy attempting to placate the Han Majority with populist policies. Such short sighted governance will only lead to more problems.

Tibet Festival in Thailand Gets Underway

Admin — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 17:38:46 +0000

The opening ceremony of a five-day Tibetan cultural extravaganza in Bangkok, Thailand's capital,
on 5 February 2010/Photos by Tenzin Losel

Bangkok: A five-day "Festival of Tibetan Spirituality, Art and Culture - From Himalayas to Chaophya River", the first of its kind, kicked off yesterday at 6 pm (local time), 5th March 2010, at Thailand's Bangkok Art and Culture Center (BACC).

Hours before the inaugural function, group of old women, who were all Chinese, came in front of the venue to disrupt the opening ceremony. When asked, they seem to have no idea what is going on and simply gathered here following telephone call from the Chinese Embassy. However, later on they did make some slogans but we manage to settle it peacefully, Tenzin Losel, an event coordinator said.

Ajarn Sulak Shivaraksha, Director of the Sathirakoses-naga Pradipa Foundation, formally inaugurated the festival amid hundreds of visitors.

In his three minutes special video message to the festival, His Holiness the Dalai Lama thanked the organisers and people of Thailand for their support and highlighted that both Thai and Tibetan people share the same teachings of Lord Buddha.

Nineteen artistes from the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, 7 monks from Gudmey Monastery in Hunsur, South India, 2 doctors from the Tibetan Medical & Astro Institute and Geshey Dorjee Damdul from the Tibet House, New Delhi, took part in the festival.

The festival showcases every aspect of Tibetan art, culture, music and Buddhism, which includes cultural performances and demonstration of sand mandala and butter sculpting, sacred Thangka (scroll) painting and film screenings.

Kalon Tempa Tsering and Kasur Jestun Pema were to preside over the festival but couldn't attend since they were denied visa to visit Thailand.

The festival, organised by the Sathirakoses Foundation, the Din Sor See Foundation and BACC, will run till 10 March.

source tibet.net

Tibetan Mass Lobby of parliament in London Wednesday 10 March

Admin — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 09:46:36 +0000

Wednesday 10 March: MASS LOBBY AT HOUSE OF COMMONS, WESTMINSTER

Venue - Central Lobby, House of Commons, Westminster

Time - from 2.30pm

Following from the very successful inaugural Tibet Mass Lobby in 2009, a coalition of UK Tibet groups have organised a second Tibet Lobby at Westminster to commemorate the Uprising and call on MPs to take action on their constituents’ urgent concerns about Tibet. For further details on the Lobby and the Lobby Asks please contact members of the coalition as shown below.

see list of all events this week