Tsering Dhundup
DHARAMSHALA, June 4: Tibetan leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama has reaffirmed the unwavering spirit of Tibetans inside Tibet, sending a powerful message to the 9th World Parliamentarians’ Convention on Tibet which concluded on Wednesday in Tokyo.
The message, delivered by Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang of the 17th Tibetan Parliament in Exile during the inaugural session on Tuesday, resonated with the 142 participants from 29 countries gathered in support of the Tibetan cause. The Dalai Lama declared, “The spirit of Tibetans in Tibet remains firm like a mountain. Their dedication to our cause is strong, unwavering, and determined, as it is based on truth and justice.” He added his hope that the Chinese people would one day recognise this indomitable spirit and the just nature of the Tibetan struggle.
The message also underscored the Tibetan movement’s deep roots in the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Tibet, shaped by centuries-old Buddhist philosophy and compassion. His Holiness highlighted a growing interest in Buddhist teachings among Chinese citizens and noted the promising engagement of scientists with the philosophy and psychology of Buddhism, a convergence that holds potential for fostering mutual respect and understanding.
The octogenarian Tibetan leader reiterated his lifelong commitment to promoting a holistic education that nurtures emotional and intellectual development and includes universal human values like kindness and integrity. He closed his message with a note of gratitude and hope: “I believe that truth will ultimately prevail.”
The Dalai Lama also extended warm greetings to the international parliamentarians, saying, “The support of people’s representatives is something that I particularly value and is of enormous significance to us Tibetans.” He stressed the critical role of global solidarity in upholding justice and human rights.
The Nobel Peace Laureate expressed concern over the growing turmoil and violence in the world. “Sadly, there seems to be no end in sight to the use of violence in settling problems and disputes,” he remarked, highlighting that history has shown violence only breeds more violence. His Holiness called for dedicated efforts to resolve conflicts through peaceful dialogue and mutual understanding, principles that have long guided the Tibetan movement.
The WPCT, organised by the Tibetan Parliament in Exile, has served as a platform for building international legislative support for Tibet since its inception. Previous conventions have been held in Washington, D.C., USA (2022); Riga, Latvia (2019); Ottawa, Canada (2012); Rome, Italy (2009); Edinburgh, Scotland (2005); and Vilnius, Lithuania(1995). The first WPCT took place in New Delhi, India, in 1994.
At the 8th WPCT in Washington in 2022, over 100 lawmakers from 26 countries participated. The event focused on countering the Chinese state narrative, advocating for human rights inside Tibet, and supporting efforts to resume dialogue between representatives of the Dalai Lama and the People’s Republic of China.
