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Mega celebrations in Lithang County to mark His Holiness’ birthday Vol. 04, Issue 159, Print Issue 83, July 15, 2016 Countries criticize China’s repressive measures

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His Holiness words of wisdom on the 81st birthday

By Ana Saran: July 8, 2016

United Nations Human Rights Council. Photo: UN News Centre

By Yangchen Dolma: June 24, 2016

Brussels — Many countries, including Germany, Switzerland, France and US criticized the Chinese government for failure to meet the international human rights standard at the 32nd Session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Speaking on ‘Human Rights Situations Requiring Council Attention’, the US Representative to the UN Human Rights Council Ambassador Keith Harper said, “We are deeply concerned that China’s new Law on the Management of Foreign NGO Activities will further narrow space for civil society and bring about excessive government controls of religious practices, especially those affecting Tibetan Buddhists, Uyghur Muslims, and Christians.”

The EU also raised similar alert regarding the ongoing harassment of human rights lawyers and activists in China. “The recent adoption of the national security packages including the counter terrorist law further raises serious question about China’s respect for its international human rights obligations.”

The EU also urged China to respect the freedom of religion and culture, especially in Tibet and Xinjiang regions.

They call for protection of human rights in China, especially in the restive regions of Tibet, Uyghur and Xinjiang region, urging China to assure fundamental rights to ethnic minorities - rights to exercise freedom of religion and movement.

Dharamshala — On the joyous occasion of His holiness the Dalai Lama’s 81st birthday, His Holiness gave out some precious pearls of wisdom addressing the listeners as His Holiness’ friends and emphasising interdependence and non-violence in the present day. His holiness urged today’s followers of Buddhism to become true 21st century Buddhists since it was an age of technological advancement and an age where science was helping to prove some principles that had already been set in the ancient world.

He also discussed some of Bhagawan Buddha’s main teachings stressing how Buddha always urged his followers to assess his teachings with their own experiences and not take any of his teachings at face value, reminding everybody of the greatness and forwardness of Buddhism.

At the same time, His holiness in no way meant for people to convert into Buddhism, but that Buddhism had a lot to offer to the world.

Addressing the audience as friends, His Holiness said, “You are celebrating this birthday as my friends. The best birthday gift you could give me, my friends, would be to reflect on the view of interdependence and conduct of nonviolence. From a Buddhist practitioner’s perspective you need to hear about them; think about them again and again to gain conviction and then, finally, in meditation, put them

His Holiness the Dalai Lama with local religious leaders cutting the cake presented to him during celebrations honoring his 81st birthday at Drepung Monastery in Mundgod, Karnataka, India on July 6, 2016. Photo/Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL

into practice to gain realisation. In other words, you should combine all three- listening, reflection and meditation-

Chinese govt. propaganda chief claims ‘Right way of development’ in Tibet

Tibetan political prisoner honoured on Heroes Day

Dolma Yangchen, President of TWA collecting the “Tenzin Delek Rinpoche Medal from Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok, Deputy speaker of TPiE, on behalf of the retired doctor, Yeshe Choedon, in Dharamshala, India, on July 12, 2016. Photo: TPI/Choneyi Sangpo

By Tahhira Somal: June 29, 2016

Dharamshala — 12th July, 2016 marked the first death anniversary of Venerable Tenzin Delek Rinpoche. A press conference was organized in Dharamshala to award the first ‘Tenzin Delek Rinpoche Medal of Courage’, a new international Tibetan human rights defenders award in his memory.

This prestige was given to a Tibetan medical doctor in recognition of her courage and dedication to promoting Tibetan human rights and justice for the Tibetan people- Yeshe Choedon. She was given this honour in absentia as she is still confined by the Chinese authorities for her work.

Nyima Lhamo, Asia Coordinator of the International Tibet Network commented, “It is a huge honour for us to bestow Yeshe Choedon with this special award in Tenzin Delek Rinpoche’s memory, and dedicated to all Tibetans in Tibet who continue to bravely resist China’s rule.”

Yeshe Choedon was sentenced to 15 years in prison on purported charges of espionage. The Chinese government has not responded to the frequent questions raised on Yeshe Choedon’s case and has not imparted with any further information. A reliable Tibet Post International (TPI) source mentioned in April 2016 that she has been facing poor health. She has also not been able to see her children ever since.

“The ‘Medal of Courage’ is being awarded on the anniversary of the death of highly regarded Tibetan community leader and human rights defender, Tenzin Delek Rinpoche, who died in custody in a Chinese prison having spent over 13 years in prison on politicized charges” remarked Dorjee Tseten, Asia Director of Students for a Free Tibet. “Yeshe Choedon, this year’s recipient, represents the thousands of Tibetans in or from Tibet working non-violently to promote and protect the human rights of the Tibetan people.”

Dolma Yangchen President of Tibetan Women’s Association said, “By honoring Yeshe Choedon we pay tribute to her courage and the courage of thousands of other Tibetans in or from Tibet who have spent years of their lives unfairly imprisoned or detained for the important role they have played in the struggle for Tibetan freedom.”

This announcement was accompanied by the launching of ‘Tibetan Heroes Day’, an annual event held to commemorate and celebrate the courage of the Tibetan people and to encourage them to continue to stand up for Freedom in Tibet.

Participants attend the Forum on the Development of Tibet in Lhasa, capital of Tibet Autonomous Region, July 7, 2016. (Photo: Xinhua/Liu Dongjun)

By Kalsang Sherab: July 12, 2016

Dharamshala — China’s State Council Information Office (SCIO), the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) government, and the Lhasa municipal government held the ‘Forum on the Development of Tibet’ in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, on 7-8 July. Despite previous failure, the 2016 ‘Lhasa Consensus’ called on some foreign delegates to endorse the Chinese government policy and propaganda on Tibet.

According to the Chinese state-run media, over 130 scholars, officials, and experts from more than 30 countries and regions attended the forum. This is part of the biannual conference on the development of the Tibetan Autonomous Region started by China since 2007.

From the state-run media’s report, five following themes were discussed in different panels of the forum: 1) the new period of Tibet’s development: innovation, harmony, green, openness, and sharing; 2) innovation and development: opportunity and choice; 3) green development: potentiality and advantages; 4) open development: new prospect from ‘One Belt, One Road’; 5) sharing development: accurate poverty alleviation and reformation of the well-being.

The Chinese government propaganda chief, i.e. the head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, Liu Qibao, attended the opening ceremony and gave an opening speech. Liu praised the ‘right way of development’ that Tibet chose to follow under the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) leadership. Liu asserts that Tibet must maintain the way of economic development and the unity of the Chinese nation.

According to the Chinese state-run media, the forum delegates visited Lhasa and Lhokha region (Chin Shannan). The state media released pictures and footages of delegates visiting Jokhang Monastery in Lhasa, Samye Monastery in Dranang, Lhokha, as well as newly built industrial parks and some selected local households. China claims that a ‘Lhasa Consensus’ has been agreed upon during the forum. Chinese news agency Xinhua posted full text of the consensus: -- The new development concepts of innovative, coordinated, green, open and shared development are in line with the times and the norms of development. The concepts are also of great importance in guiding Tibet’s future development. The concept of innovation will

lead Tibet on a path of scientific and technological progress, and the concept of coordination will lead the region on a path of sustainable development. The concept of green development will help Tibet in environmental protection, and the concept of openness will promote modern civilization in Tibet. The concept of shared development will steer Tibet toward common prosperity. The development of Tibet is standing at a new historic starting point.

-- Tibet, the “Roof of the World” and the “Third Pole”, has to continue construction and seek development at such a high altitude, when there is no successful precedent in the world to emulate. Over years of experimentation and practice, Tibet has embarked on a path of development that suits its unique conditions and yielded encouraging results. Tibetans have the right to pursue a better life.

To seek sound development and the full protection of Tibet, and to build a new Tibet that is more beautiful, harmonious and happier are the shared wishes among all participants.

-- Tibet is home to its inhabitants with its distinctive regional culture.

Effective measures have produced remarkable achievements in the protection, inheritance and promotion of its fine culture. Tibet, a place where the traditional and the modern harmoniously blend, has left an unforgettable impression on participants. In this context of rapid modernization and greater opening up to the outside world, combining cultural preservation with development is the best way to carry Tibet’s outstanding traditional culture forward.

-- Protecting Tibet’s environment is of great critical significance to China, Asia and the world. Tibet’s development should give top priority to environmental protection and cultivate green models of development and living. Every tree and plant, and mountain and river, on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau should be well preserved. The implementation of environmentalprotection measures - including projects to build ecological protective screens; strengthen environmental protection and improvement; promote ecological economic growth and lowcarbon development; and advance climate change mitigation will certainly lead Tibet along a road of harmonious coexistence between humankind and nature.

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without separating one from the other. That would be the best gift of friendship on my birthday.”

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EU urged to raise Tibet during EU-China Summit

By Yeshe Choesang: July 10, 2016

Brussels — Ahead of the 18 th EU-China Summit in Beijing, the crossparty Tibet Interest Group (TIG) in the European Parliament asked the EU leaders’ immediate action to resolve the unsettling situation in Tibet, by raising these issues with the Chinese counter-part.

The 18th bilateral summit between the EU and China will take place on 12-13 July in Beijing,” the Council of the European Union said in a statement.

“Discussions will focus on political and economic relations as well as global and regional issues,” the statement said adding that “The summit is expected to cover mobility and migration, foreign policy cooperation and the human rights dialogue with China.”

In a letter addressed to the EU leaders, Mr Thomas Mann, a German MEP and Chair of the TIG, thanked the EU for raising the issue of Tibet with her Chinese counter-part during the previous EU-China Summit on 29 June 2015 in Brussels.

“We are writing to draw the attention of the EU leaders on two important issues that are of immediate concern to us, which we would hope the EU leaders can address during the forthcoming 18th EU-China Summit on 12-13 July in Beijing, China”, said Mr. Mann on behalf of his group.

He highlighted the ongoing mining activities at Gong-ngon Lari, a Tibetan holy mountain site in Amchok in Eastern Tibet where local Tibetans have staged numerous peaceful protests calling for the cessation of the mining that were brutally suppressed by the Chinese authorities.

The second point raised in the letter was the demolition of Larung Gar Academy, the world’s largest monastic institution which consists of a population of at least 10,000 monks and laypeople, that the Chinese government plans to eliminate quarters for all but 5000 monks, nuns and laypeople by September 2017.

He requested the EU leaders’ immediate action to resolve the unsettling situation in the region and to raise these issues with the Chinese counter-part during the summit. And urged them to call on the Chinese leaders to observe it’s environmental laws, universal human rights and respect Tibetan people’s religious and cultural considerations in undertaking development projects in Tibet.

European Council President Donald Tusk and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker will represent the European Union at the summit. The High Representative Federica Mogherini, Commission Vice President Jyrki Katainen and Commissioner Cecilia Malmström will also participate.

During EU-China summit in Brussels last year, the Council President urged China to restart a dialogue with representatives of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

“I expressed our concerns on freedom of expression and association in China including people belonging to minorities including Tibetan and Uighur,” Tusk said at a joint press conference in Brussels with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang.

“In that context, I have urged China to restart a meaningful dialogue with the Dalai Lama’s representatives,” he added.

Human Rights is listed among the key initiatives of the upcoming summit, saying: “Deepen exchanges on human rights at the bilateral and international level on the basis of equality and mutual respect. Strengthen the Human Rights Dialogue with constructive discussions on jointly agreed key priority areas.”

The European Council, charged with defining the EU’s overall political direction and priorities, is the institution of the European Union (EU) that comprises the heads of state or government of the member states, along with President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission.

TIBET NEWS 2 TPI NEWS Society bitterly divided on Middle His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday celebrated in Lhasa Way and Rangzen: Mr Rangzen The Tibet Post International

July 15, 2016

By Tahhira Somal: July 8, 2016

Dharamshala — The middle way approach or Umaylam as devised by His Holiness the Dalai Lama is a possible way to prospectively solve the Tibetan issue. The middle way approach as its name suggests is a policy that calls for moderation and thus aims at mutual benefit for the Tibetans and the Chinese.

The renowned journalist and Tibetologist Mr Vijay Kranti told the Tibet Post International (TPI) that as the supreme leader of Tibet, HH the Dalai Lama has had many options before him to tackle the Tibetan issue. “Using this right he decided to start with his famous ‘five-point’ plan that was focused on ‘Middle Path’. Under this five-point plan he offered to the Chinese leaders that he was ready to forego the demand of Tibet’s independence provided China offers ‘genuine autonomy’ to Tibet.”

Mr Kranti told TPI that his views and stand on the controversial issue of ‘Middle Path – Umaylam- Rangzen are abundantly clear to the Tibetan leadership, Tibetan community, Tibetan journalists and Tibet supporters and he has even been affectionately called “Mr Rangzen”.

The Tibetologist said that, “Had it been so perceived by the Tibetan society in general, there was no need of the interpretation or ‘misinterpretation’ of the ‘Middle Path’ policy of HH the Dalai Lama which unambiguously implied acceptance of Tibet as a ‘part of China’ and Tibetans agreeing to live within the bounds of constitution of Peoples Republic of China (PRC). One had only to support it or just disagree with it -- as the ‘Rangzen’ followers did. But in their over enthusiasm the pro-Autonomy lobby attempted to convert this autonomy-vs-Rangzen divide into ‘proDalai Lama’ and ‘Anti-Dalai-Lama’ camps.”

Mr Kranti remarked that, the pro- autonomy lobby was still not satisfied by this that they hijacked the Dalai Lama’s political concept of ‘Middle Path’ and tried to paint it as Lord Buddha’s religious doctrine of ‘Umaylam’. This was to deprive HH the Dalai Lama from probing any other options if this fails.

“Unfortunately some unimaginative utterances by a few individuals from the ‘pro-Rangzen’ groups only made it easier for their rivals to paint the entire ‘Rangzen’ movement as blasphamy and ‘anti-Dalai Lama’. In my over four decade long association with the Tibetan community I’ve never seen the society divided so bitterly on any other issue.”

After China’s shocking rejection of this concept Mr Kranti told TPI that an event like this evoked hope that the Tibetan community would find an alternative to the Middle Path and would undo the social divide.

“But unfortunately the Tibetan exile community failed

to live up to the occasion.”

After these chain of events Mr Kranti told TPI that, “Now that the Chinese government has unequivocally rejected the Dalai Lama’s offer of giving up the demand of independence and accepting Tibetan autonomy within the framework of Chinese constitution, the Tibetan society is left with only two extreme choices of either giving up the Tibetan struggle completely or to win back Tibetan independence viz. ‘Rangzen’ through any means including violence. In this given situation whether one invokes Lord Buddha’s Umaylam or Dalai Lama’s Middle Path policy, the only ‘Middle-Point’ one can reach between these two extremes is to strive for Tibetan independence through peaceful means.

This choice is surely going to look very difficult or even ‘impossible’ to those who have been hoping for an easy and immediate ‘solution’ of the Tibetan problem by complete surrender of Tibet’s independent personality into the sea of Chinese geography and constitution. They might try to reject it simply because this approach may require to wait for much longer time than the span of their personal life. But we have examples like India and Israel who lost their freedom and had to wait for centuries to see the dawn of their ‘Rangzen’.”

Mr Kranti’s views indulge in the view that the Middle Path seems difficult or even impossible to those who have been hoping for an easy and immediate solution of the Tibetan problem by the complete surrender of Tibet’s independent personality. He also adds, “A sympathizer like me would like to respectfully ask these proponents of quickie solutions a simple question: “How intelligent it is for a nation to lose one thing (viz. Rangzen) and fight for an altogether different thing (viz. Autonomy)?”

My experience in Dharamshala, interning with the TPI, I think those who have understood the MiddleWay Approach correctly have recognized it’s latent potential. In recent years voices have been raised regarding the same, the US, European Union and even many Chinese scholars are included in these voices.

Misunderstandings regarding what the Middle Way Approach stands for are a result of Chinese government propaganda. While the spiritual leader of Tibet has frequently asserted that separation and independence is not the purpose, instead he wants genuine autonomy.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the interviewee and author and do not necessarily reflects the editorial policy of The Tibet Post International.

Tahhira Somal is a 1st year BA at Jindal School of International Affairs, O.P Jindal Global University. She currently interns at the Tibet Post International. You can reach her at tahhirasomal4@gmail.com

Buddhist devotees prostrate outside Jokhang temple in Lhasa in an undated file photo. The Jokhang Temple located in Barkhor Square at the center of Lhasa. It was the first Buddhist temple in Tibet. Photo: Mythibetour.com

By Hindustan Tines, June 24, 2016

“In my heart,” the sun-burnt Tibetan said of his plans to observe the Dalai Lama’s 81st birthday before quietly fading into a crowd of tourists and believers heading into the Sera monastery outside Lhasa on Wednesday morning.

Elsewhere in the city, the Dharamsala-based spiritual leader’s birthday wasn’t celebrated with any kind of fervour.

Furtively would probably be a more appropriate word to describe how Tibetans marked the occasion across the Tibet Autonomous Region and especially in the capital Lhasa.

The Communist Party of China (CPC)-led government forbids any public celebration of the birthday of the Dalai Lama, who fled to India in 1959 following a revolt in the remote region.

At Potala Palace, the Dalai Lama’s erstwhile residence, things appeared normal with visitors crowding the 13-storey world heritage structure and military-trained fire-fighters keeping a close watch on them.

The government has branded the internationally revered monk as a “splittist” and a “wolf in monk’s robes”.

Beijing says he incited a large number of selfimmolation cases – more than 130 – in which Tibetans set themselves afire, demanding his return to China and more rights for the community.

The Chinese government is lenient about the Dalai Lama’s mention in some Tibetan regions, such as Shangri La, where his photos are often displayed in homes.

But not in the Tibet Autonomous Region.

Nearly all Tibetans Hindustan Times spoke to in Lhasa on Wednesday remained silent or changed the conversation when it came to the birthday.

One put a finger to his lips. Others said no one was celebrating it – at least not openly.

Lhasa was instead busy completing preparations for the “2016 Forum on the Development of Tibet”, an international seminar with participants from scores of countries and experts on Tibet from across China.

“His birthday is not important to the Chinese. It is

not an important date. Do you see any abnormal security in the city? The locals are not bothered,” said Li Xiaojun, director at the State Council, China’s cabinet.

Hindustan Times is in Lhasa at the invitation of the State Council to cover the forum as part of a group of international experts and a handful of independent journalists.

During tours of Potala Palace and Sera Monastery, government officials kept the journalists under watch, apparently to prevent them interacting with locals.

“The government doesn’t interfere in the private lives of Chinese citizens,” Li said when asked about whether Tibetans were allowed to celebrate the Dalai Lama’s birthday in their homes. “Public display is forbidden. How can it be allowed, he is a separatist.”

He said there was no connection between the birthday and the forum being held at around the same time.

“Our only focus is to lift 590,000 Tibet Autonomous Region citizens under the poverty line out of poverty in the next few years by improving their livelihood,” he said.

Tibetan Community Divided? words of wisdom on the 81st birthday ...

A Question of Representation

By Jay Schutte: July 13, 2016

Dharamshala - It has been stated that societies can hold opposing views while remaining undivided. This, in fact, might be a salient hallmark of what many would term a ‘healthy democratic society’. In a recent column for the Tibetan Post International (TPI) titled “Society Bitterly Divided on Middle Way and Rangzen: Mr Rangzen” something more ominous has been proposed.

In it, journalist Tahhira Somal suggests that there is a serious political fracture emerging in the Tibetan community around an issue that has animated much debate within it for many years: The opposing views of Rangzen, otherwise referred to as ‘independence’ (from China); and ‘middle way’ proposed by HH the Dalai Lama which seeks ‘genuine autonomy’ without independence in China.

There is no doubt, following a number of interviews and conversations with Tibetans living within and outside of China over the last three years, that there is in fact a tension between ‘rangzen’ and ‘middle way’ political views. However, claiming an antagonism or divide is perhaps somewhat polemical within a community where many would accept the ‘middle way’ while preferring ‘rangzen’ and vice versa. Of course, claiming a polemic does not have to look like sensationalism if sufficient evidence for such a claim is provided. Herein lies my critique of this recent article.

Apart from projecting an over-arching rangzen or ‘independence’ bias, journalist Vijay Kranti – appearing as Mr. Rangzen in the article – is posited as a ‘Tibetologist’. This is a fairly troubling misrepresentation, and insults a number of academics who train – often for decades – to attain such credentials.

Rather, Vijay Kranti is a celebrated journalist who has written on Tibetan issues, and developed a considerably successful career as a photographer of Tibetan subjects.

Furthermore, and by his own admission, Kranti’s own work promotes a fairly obvious rangzen politics. If Samal were to write an article featuring this renowned journalist-photographer and his work, I would have a lot less reason to object to what was written.

However, invoking the opinions of a non-Tibetan and

non-Academic as expert evidence for a claim about an entire community is another fairly problematic misrepresentation.

There are – to be sure – fairly obvious concerns with Kranti’s quoted narrative too. These, again, would be less damning if they were framed as purely Kranti’s point of view, perhaps as the subject of a biographical feature, or something to that effect. However, this was not the case and thus two moments in particular deserve some attention.

In the first, he conflates the “five point plan” (which should in fact be the ‘five point peace plan) with the ‘middle way’. What is troubling about this is that these were in fact two completely different policies with almost contradictory outcomes. Melvyn Goldstein – an actual Tibetologist – along with several other scholars and researchers have written as much. Even average Tibetan community members and Chinese politicians are fundamentally aware of the difference.

The second quote that reveals a distance between Kranti’s claims and the community he is attempting to speak for arises when he criticizes the Tibetan exile community for “[failing] to live up to the occasion” of finding an alternative to the ‘middle way’. Here, it can be argued that the ‘failure’ to ‘live up to’ expectations may itself be evidence for the fact that the Tibetan community is NOT as divided as Kranti asserts.

In the same breath, we might ask whose expectations Kranti wants the Tibetan community to live up to? Is this a hint of projection on Kranti’s part? Again, perhaps a debate could be pursued if this were a feature on Kranti’s views of Tibetan politics. However, the issue that emerges here is a different one, and rests on this concluding question: Do Kranti’s views constitute sufficient evidence for internal political divisions within a community that isn’t even voiced once in an article attempting to represent it?

I would argue they do not.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s and do not necessarily reflects the editorial policy of The Tibet Post International.

Jay Schutte is a 6th-year PhD candidate in anthropology at University of Chicago. You can reach him at xiangfei646@gmail.com

-- The forum, in which people from around the globe discussed ways to boost Tibetan prosperity, is a positive action to show China’s confidence and openness to the world. The event will help the world better understand Tibet and build consensus on it, which is beneficial to Tibet’s development. Participants hope the forum will continue to improve and attract more talented people to advance Tibet’s development.

In 2014, China also set up a ‘Lhasa Consensus’ using the same name on that occasion for an identical process.

However, as reported by the BBC, some conference delegates revealed dissatisfaction at being associated with the pro-China document later on. Compared to 2014, the Lhasa Consensus this time did not make negative reference to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, nor did it criticize the Central Tibetan Administration in Dharamsala, India.

Chinese state media published bits-and-pieces interviews of the delegates to show the delegates’ praise of Tibet’s rapid economic progress and critiques of previous prejudices and stereotypes on Tibet.

According to the state media’s reports and footages, participants of the conference include Tibetologist Leonard van der Kuijp from Harvard University, Daniel Dudek, the vice president for Asia of the Environmental Defense Fund, and Christine Davies, vice president of the Asia Society.

The state media also highlighted the speech of French writer Sonia Bressler, who last year was praised by Chinese official news sources for writing about Tibet and speaking positively about the situation in Xinjiang.

They also featured a senior correspondent from India, a Chinese language teacher from Minia University in Egypt, a Nigerian scholar, and a professor on religion from University of Latvia.

The Tibetan administration says that ‘the main causes of the Tibetan people’s grievances are China’s policies of political repression, cultural assimilation, economic marginalisation, social discrimination and environmental destruction in Tibet’.

Free Tibet director Eleanor Byrne-Rosengren said: “The reality of economic development in Tibet is that the majority of Tibetans are marginalised spectators as Chinese migrants and businesses harvest the benefits of Beijing’s policies. The second problem with China’s approach is that only those who wish to be fooled by it, will be fooled by it. Intelligent people don’t like being herded, overseen and treated like idiots and most delegates will know that the desperate attempt to hide

things from them reveals far more about Tibet under Chinese rule than what’s being shown to them.”

During the meeting in Lhasa, some delegates sopke out positively about the situation in Tibet—despite many critics content the economy development benefits Chinese migrants more than Tibetan people that bring doubt, question, or stigma to the international community. However, none of the participants could give voice on the real situation in the region, where hundreds of Tibetan political prisoners are still in jail for expressing their views.

Many international organisations, governments and parliaments reported abuses of human rights in Tibet include restricted freedom of religion, belief, and association. Specifically, their reports say Tibetans have faced arbitrary arrest and maltreatment in custody, including torture at the hands of Chinese authorities— Freedom of the Press in Tibet is still absent, and Tibet’s media is tightly controlled by the Chinese leadership, making it difficult to determine

accurately the scope of human rights abuses.

Various governments have issued appeals for China to cease its oppression of Tibetans or requested international fact-finding delegations be allowed to visit Tibet, unfortunately mostly denied, except for a few, including a US delegation. After his delegation visiting Tibet, Jim McGovern, a Democratic congressman on the trip told reporters: “The Chinese government wanted to control as much of our visit as they could. And we saw what they wanted us to see.”

Since the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1949, an estimated 1.2 million Tibetans have been raped, tortured and murdered, thousands imprisoned and over 6,000 Tibetan Buddhist monasteries and institutions destroyed. A total verified number of self-immolations in Tibet to 144 since February 2009. Of these, 124 died while the others were either critically injured or their whereabouts and status are unknown.

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Dr Franz Pahl Mr Thomas Kemeil Mr Shalinder Kumar Ven Thupten Yarphel

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Former speaker of South Tyrol, Italy A software engineer, Austria A professional graphic designer, India A Tibetan writer, India

Editor in Chief Yeshe Choesang Chinese Editor Keary Huang Tibetan Editor Choneyi Sangpo Assistant Editor Dawa Phurbu Project Manager Molly Lortie Taipei Photographer Artemas Liu Layout & Design Choneyi Sangpo Circulation Tsering Samdhup

Contributors to this editon Jane Cook UK Yeshe Choesang India Choenyi Sangpo India Keary Huang Taiwan Dawa Phurbu India Tahhira Somal India Tenzin Yeshe USA Ana Saran India Aakriti Bansal India Kalsang Sherab USA Yangchen Dolma India Himalayan Literacy Trust Room #, Top Floor, New Varuni House Temple Road, McLeod Ganj: 176219 Dharamshala, Distt. Kangra H.P., India

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E-mail: editor@thetibetpost.com Skype: dhardhophonya1959 Mobile: +91-9882423566 www.thetibetpost.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/tpinews

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TPI NEWS

Tibet & Exile News

July 15, 2016

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Committed to dialogue with China on MWA is based on the current situation in Tibet: TPiE Tibet: Central Tibetan Administration

By Tahhira Somal: July 06, 2016

Officiating Sikyong Kalon Sonam Topgyal Khorlatsang addressing the gathering at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, India, to mark the 81st birthday celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, on July 6, 2016. Photo: TPI/Choneyi Sangpo

By Yeshe Choesang: July 06 , 2016

Dharamshala — Large crowds gathered at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, on July 6, to participate in the official 81st birthday celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who is currently at Mundgod Tibetan settlement in south India, is turning 81 on Wednesday.

As Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay and Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel are both in Mundgod, the official statements of the Kashag and Tibetan Parliament were read out by officiating Sikyong Kalon Sonam Topgyal Khorlatsang and Deputy Speaker Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok respectively. The event was attended by top Tibetan officials and representatives of Tibetan NGOs. The situation in Tibet and the implications of environmental degradation on the Tibetan plateau were among the issues which figured in the talks between US President Barack Obama and His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the central Tibetan Administration said on Wednesday.

“Obama in his meeting with His Holiness at the White House on 15 June, discussed the critical political situation of Tibetans inside Tibet and the implications of environmental degradation on the plateau,” said a statement by the Tibetan Cabinet to mark the pontiff’s 81st birthday.

According to the statement, US President Obama encouraged a meaningful and direct dialogue between His Holiness the Dalai Lama or his representatives and Chinese government to lower tensions and resolve differences.

“Obama also welcomed His Holiness’ leadership on climate change issue and expressed support for his efforts in raising awareness of the importance of limiting global warming, including to protect the Himalayan glaciers and the environment on the Tibetan plateau.”

Emphasizing his strong support for the preservation of Tibet’s unique religious, cultural and linguistic traditions, the Tibetan Cabinet or the Kashag said the US President lauded the Dalai Lama’s commitment to peace and non-violence.”We remain firmly committed to the ‘middle-way’ policy and will take concrete measures to ensure that dialogue with China takes place in the near future,” said the cabinet, headquartered in this northern hill town Dharamshala.

Over the last few decades, the pontiff has visited 67 countries, spanning six continents, and authored over 100 books, advocating global peace and harmony. Meanwhile, morning prayers for the well being and long life of the Dalai Lama were held here on his birthday on Wednesday.

Expressing warm greetings to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Kalon Sonam Topgyal Khorlatsang on behalf of Kashag said: “On this joyous occasion of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama’s 81st birthday, on behalf of Kashag and Tibetans inside and outside Tibet, I would like to express our deepest reverence to His Holiness the Dalai Lama.”

“On this very day in 1935, following numerous auspicious signs and symbols, Lhamo Dhondup was born to father Choekyong Tsering and mother Dekyi Tsering in Taktser village, located in the Amdo region of Tibet. We owe deep gratitude to the great parents for blessing us with their precious son. His Holiness’ birth at the fringes of the Tibetan plateau is similar to previous great Lamas and several Dalai Lamas who have chosen specific birthplaces to signify unity in Tibet,” he added.

Applauding and paying gratitude to His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s vision for a democratic Tibetan polity, the officiating Sikyong explained the efforts exerted by His Holiness the Dalai Lama over the years to democratise the Tibetan administrative system.

“His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama, even at a young age, had the vision of a strong united Tibet.

Enthroned as the 14th Dalai Lama at the age of five, he had to take over the spiritual and temporal authority of Tibet at the tender age of 16, at a time when the People’s Republic of China illegally occupied Tibet. The young Dalai Lama immediately formed the Reform Committee to cater to the welfare of poor Tibetans, irrespective of their provincial or religious affiliations. This committee intrinsically helped strengthen Tibetan unity,” he said, reading from the kashag’s statement.

“At the age of 24, when His Holiness’ efforts for a peaceful resolution with China did not materialize, he declared the continuation of the Gadhen Phodrang government as the legitimate government of Tibet and its temporary establishment at Lhuntsedzong. After His Holiness sought refuge in India, it was in the hilly Indian town of Mussoorie that His Holiness instituted the Kashag of the Tibetan Administration-in-exile affirming their commitment to fostering unity among Tibetans.

In May 1960, the Central Tibetan Administration was moved to Dharamsala and to ensure administrative effectiveness, His Holiness announced the portfolio of the Kalons.”

“On November 17, 1959 in Mussoorie and on July 1st, 1960 in Dalhousie, His Holiness shared his vision of democracy. He said, “It is wrong and very dangerous to harbor prejudices between U-Tsang, Amdo and Kham. You should continue to develop internal harmony and be as firmly united as an iron ball.” With a steadfast commitment to represent unity among Tibetans, leaders of all three provinces, monastic institutions and former staff members of the Gaden Phodrang government in Tibet gathered at Bodhgaya and took the Na-gyen Chenmo (great oath) and pledged iron-like unity under the leadership of His Holiness the Dalai Lama,” he added.

The Kashag’s statement also pointed out the dangers posed by sectarian and regional divisions which came into particular prominence during the recent election campaigns and strongly emphasised the importance of maintaining unity and harmony.

“Our exile history tells us that for the first few decades, there have been instances of regional and sectarian discord but they have been diluted overtime. Since the 90s, for two decades, harmony and unity among Tibetans was widespread and were at its peak. Hence in 2011, His Holiness believing in Tibetan unity and political maturity accordingly devolved his political authority to the elected leadership.”

“However, during the final round of the 2016 election of Sikyong and the members of the Tibetan Parliamentin-Exile, traits of regionalism was raised. His Holiness was hurt as made clear from his speech during the 2016 swearing-in-ceremony of Sikyong. “I was pained to see the degradation of morality and the overtones of regional biases during the election campaign. It is very unfortunate. The unity of the three traditional provinces of Tibet is of primary importance. Therefore, we should do away with this warped sense of biases to regions and move on as one. If you consider me your friend, please pay attention to what I have said.”

“This remark by His Holiness the Dalai Lama bears a disconcerting resemblance to the ones given in 1959 and 1960. Instead of progression, the final elections witnessed regression. Regional biases were not only expressed, but acted upon, thereby creating disharmony.

However there is a window of opportunity for us to rectify our mistakes and redefine our destiny. Mahatma Gandhi had said, “Your beliefs become your thoughts, thoughts become words, words become actions, actions become habits, habits become values and values become your destiny.” Therefore, we urge Tibetans everywhere to remove their regional and sectarian partisanship from their thoughts, words and actions because we cannot afford to churn them into our destiny.”

Dharamshala — To mark the 81st birthday of the spiritual leader of Tibet, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan Parliament in-Exile (TPiE) Wednesday said the Middle-way policy is based on the reality of the current situation in Tibet, to resolving the issue of Tibet.

As Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel is currently visiting in South India, the official statement is read out by Deputy Speaker Ven Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok.

“On this happy occasion we remember him with infinite fondness for his kindness and the limitless amounts of gratitude we owe to him. With offering of prostrations, we on behalf of all Tibetans in Tibet and in exile, offer our greetings and felicitations to His Holiness with feelings of joy, faith and contentment.”

Ven Phuntsok conveyed that His Holiness has not only mentored people on the path to enlightenment and spirituality but since the delicate age of 16 has involved himself in the political arena when in 1949 communist China began its invasion of Tibet and his efforts continued even after China fully invaded the Snowland this time on Indian premises by establishing the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA).

“His Holiness the Great Fourteenth Dalai Lama took birth to assume command at a time when the humanity in general lived in a degenerate period and the religiously imbued Tibet, in particular, was plunged in such critical situation as today. Endowed with all the symbols of a noble being in his perfect physical attributes, His Holiness became an accomplished bearer of all knowledge in both the general and specialized fields, including in the aspects of hearing, thinking and contemplating, and in the aspects of teaching, debating, and composing, becoming the apex ornament in Buddhist learning in the Snowland of Tibet.”

The speech also highlighted His Holiness The Dalai Lama’s competence and unbiased regard for the Tibetan people by favoring democracy and transforming the CTA into a stable and capable entity. One conspicuous way to resolve the issue of Tibet, which was recognized by the international community and even by the intellectuals in China, was the Middle Way Policy, which became the policy of the CTA under the supervision of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. “Developments such as these are results of adhering with fundamental importance to the wishes of His Holiness the Dalai Lama whose practical approach to resolving the issue of Tibet is based on the reality of the current situation.”

The parliament appreciated His Holinmess’ conviction,

Deputy Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in-Exile, Ven Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok addresing the special gathering at the main temple in Dharamshala, India, on July 6, 2016. Photo: TPI/Choneyi Sangpo

as he has left no stone unturned to fight for the cause of Tibet but also it was made noteworthy that he has worked for the people of the world by promoting human values. His Holiness has also encouraged Buddhist science research, which has been found to possibly be an ingredient to a happy society. Hence, he has become a symbol of compassion and philanthropy.

While promoting altruistic goals in the world Nobel Peace Prize Laureate has been able to form connections with officials around the world bringing the cause of Tibet into limelight.

Recently, the Tibetan leader was able to win the support of the US president who helped the cause.

“The president, in his turn, expressed support for the middle way policy and called for the resumption of dialogue between the government of China and representatives of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in a message directed at Beijing. This was a result of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s perseverance in continued efforts to achieve the just cause of Tibet. In view of this fact, we take this opportunity to express limitless thanks and gratitude to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on behalf of all Tibetans in Tibet and in exile” The speech also highlighted the critical environmental damage and violations that are taking place in the world in general and specifically in Tibet at the hands of China. His holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday was pronounced as a good occasion to be made aware and

cautious. The occasion was also used to declare that the political turmoil and breaching of Tibetan ethics within the parliament has been resolved and the Tibetan people must be and feel united in order to keep in mind his holiness the Dalai Lama’s wishes.

The jovial day was also used to express gratitude to the Indian government, “In appreciation at all times of the rendering of these help, we take the opportunity provided by this festive occasion to express our thanks and gratitude to the government and people of India and, likewise, also to the governments, political leaders, the Tibet Support Groups community, and the individual supporters across the world.”

And in conclusion his holiness the Dalai Lama was given the best of wishes, “Finally, we pray that His Holiness the Dalai Lama live for a hundred aeons, that all his desires may be seen fulfilled spontaneously, and that the just cause of Tibet may be definitely achieved.”

The parliament also reminded the public of the blissful time when His Holiness the Dalai Lama took birth on the 6th of July, 1935 which corresponded to the 5th day of the 5th month of the Tibetan Wood-Hog Year.

His birth was marked by felicitous omens and was an outcome of the joined endeavors of the sentient beings of the snowland of Tibet combined with the prior-prayers of the Dalai Lama who is the designated deity of Tibet Chenrezig or compassion Buddha. It says this day is indeed gleeful for the Tibetans since it is the day on which their protector, guru and leader was born.

In the Japanese capital-Tokyo, Japanese dignitaries, parliamentarians, Tibetans and guests gathered at Hotel Okura in Tokyo on Saturday to celebrate the 81st birthday celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The celebration started with offering of mendel to the portrait of His Holiness by chief guest Mr Sonam Topgyal Khorlatsang Kalon for Department of Home, Central Tibetan Administration followed by a long life prayer offering by Tibetans in Japan.

Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama for East Asia and Japan, Mr Lugtok welcomed the guests and highlighted briefly on how important is it to have such a leader like His Holiness who committed his whole life to serve and promote human values to make this world more peaceful and compassionate.

Chief guest Mr Sonam T Khorlatsang shared a brief biography of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and his three commitments.

He also spoke on the tireless efforts made by His Holiness and the Tibetan people to restore their lost freedom while making sure the cultural values remain deep rooted in every heart and mind of the Tibetan people. He thanked them for their support and further delights them by sharing that His Holiness has accepted to live till 113 years.

Further Koichi Hiraoka, executive director of Seifu high school, raised a toss and the guests enjoyed the varieties of food and drinks while listening to the live performance by Tibetan singer Mr Tenzin Choegyal.

Earlier in the afternoon, chief guest Mr Sonam T Khorlatsang delivered a talk on status of Tibetan refugees in India and new arrivals from Tibet at Keisho Den hall in Gokokuji Temple in Tokyo. He also met with Tibetans who have gathered there for prayer congregation for His Holiness at the temple and

advised them to stay united as Tibetans irrespective of numbers.

However, Nepalese authorities prevented Tibetans from celebrating their spiritual leader’s birthday on Wednesday.

Hundreds of riot police blocked the Tibetans from entering the Srongtsen Bhrikuti Boarding High School on the northern edge of Katmandu where the traditional celebrations were planned.

Sources said that only students wearing school uniforms were allowed inside the compound, while other Tibetans including many monks and nuns were stopped. Police detained several Tibetans who tried to hold a prayer meeting on the street. A brief scuffle broke out but no one was hurt. But authorities earlier said they would allow celebrations inside monasteries provided there are no banners or slogans against China.

Nepalese authorities claimed that Tibetan gatherings in generally turn into protests against China, with participants shouting slogans demanding an end to Chinese rule in their homeland.

Chinese authorities tightened restrictions on the Tibetan people this year in advance of His Holiness’birthday, posting warnings against celebrations of the politically sensitive event and blocking public gatherings that could be linked to it. However, there are also several reports that Tibetans within Tibet celebrated the happy occasion with great zeal and enthusiasm.

Born on 6 July 1935 to a peasant family in Takster village in the Amdo region of Tibet, His Holiness the great 14 Dalai Lama was recognised as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama when he was two years old. He was enthroned to the status when he turned five, was compelled to take over both the political and spiritual responsibility of Tibet at the tender age of sixteen and unfortunately led to his flight into exile in India at the age of twenty four due to Chinese illegal invasion of Tibet from 1949.

Celebrations mark 81st Birthday of His Holiness

By Aakriti Bansal: July 06, 2016

Dharamshala — Thousands of people, including Tibetans and supporters gathered at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, to celebrate the 81st birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The Nobel Peace Prize lureate was not present in Dharamshala and attended celebrations in Mundgod in Karnataka State.

The event was attended by top officials, include justice commissioners, Kalons, Parliamentarians along with representatives of Tibetan NGOs. Other dignitaries include Mr Ajai Singh Mankotia, President of the IndoTibetan Friendship Association.

Justice Commissioner Mr Kargyu Dhondup opened launch of the Hindi version of Vijay Kranti’s comic book ‘Dalai Lama – Soldier of Peace’. Mr Kranti is a prominent Indian journalist and a long-time friend of Tibet.

Mr.Ajay Singh Mankotia appealed everyone to exert efforts towards making Dharamshala a truly spiritual destination which reflects the blessings and teachings of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

The official function also featured the launch of the Hindi version of the comic book ‘Dalai Lama – Soldier of Peace’ and a book on the life of former Tibetan political prisoner Lobsang Tenzin. Two distinguished staff and three civil servants who have served in the Tibetan administration for more than 25 years were also felicitated during the function.

The celebration further included cultural performances by the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts and by students of Tibetan schools. Local Indians also distributed sweets on the streets of Mcleod Ganj in celebration to mark the auspicious occasion.

The Taiwan Office of Tibet officially marked the 81st birthday of His Holiness The Dalai Lama with a great reception on Sunday at Zhongying building, the Taiwanese capital, Taipei.

Taiwan is known for celebrating His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday with great pomp and fanfare.

Nearly 600 people, comprising Tibetans as well as representatives and members of over 35 Tibetans and Chinese Buddhist dharma centers in Taiwan attended the birthday celebration.

The official reception on His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 81st birthday was followed by the opening of a week-long photo exhibition titled “Glimpse of His Holiness the Dalai Lama” at the Taipei Film House. The documentary film, Sunrise, Sunset: Dalai Lama XIV, by Rassvet/Zakat, was also screened following the conclusion of the opening ceremony of the photo exhibition.

Further, thousands of people are expected to attend the 2016 Blessing Concert for His Holiness the Dalai Lama organized by the Gaden Shartse Center in Taipei on July 6, at the National Dr Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall. The Center will organize a similar concert in Kaoshiung city on 9 July.

Tibetans and supporters gathering at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, India, to celebrate His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 81st birthday, on July 6, 2016. Photo: TPI/Choneyi Sangpo

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means should his followers develop trust and confidence in his teachings and accept them.

Among the founders of all the world’s spiritual traditions, only the Buddha advised that his words should be subject to reason and logic and [be] experiment[ed] with; not being taken on faith alone. Thus, the excellent scholars of Nalanda followed the path of logic and reasoning to demonstrate the truth of the words of the Buddha. For example, they used reasoning in expounding the Four Noble Truths and their sixteen aspects. Different interpretations of the view of selflessness have given rise to four Buddhist schools of thought- all followers of the same teacher, the Buddha. Their interpretations of the Buddha’s words vary according to the profundity of their explanation. This demonstrates the Nalanda tradition’s emphasis on the proof through logic and reason.”

“Today, I urge that followers of the Buddha become 21st century Buddhists. During the 20th and 21st centuries there has been a huge material development and technological progress, while scientific investigation of reality is ever improving. However the primary focus of scientific investigation so far has been on the material world. Since the last decades of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century, even scientists have begun to recognise the role of mind and emotions in pleasure and pain. They recognise that peace of mind is necessary even for physical health. Whether you are a religious person or not, peace of mind is important for your well-being. So scientists have found a new interest in the realm of the mind. At the same time scientists are also paying greater attention to inner qualities like love, compassion, tolerance, contentment, and so forth. Under such circumstances, the ancient Indian understanding of the workings of the mind is very relevant in today’s world.

In particular, the Nalanda tradition brought to Tibet by the Great Abbot Shantarakshita and preserved well by us Tibetans. Consequently, we are now in a position to discuss and share the vast and profound wisdom of Buddhism with our spiritual brothers and sisters.

“Similarly, sharing our understanding of the workings of the mind could contribute to the well-being of the world at large. We are able to do this because the leading masters

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words of wisdom on the 81st birthday ...

“The first utterance of the Buddha on attaining full perfect enlightenment was: I have discovered a nectar-like truth, which is deep, serene, unfabricated, clear light and uncompounded. Even if I were to teach it, since nobody would understand it I shall keep silent and remain in the forest. What he meant wasall the other spiritual traditions that had arisen until then in the noble land of India asserted an innate enduring self. They explained past and future lives, karma and so forth on the basis of that idea of self. Under the circumstances, the Bhagwan Buddha’s propounding a theory of selflessness would conflict with what was then known in the world. Therefore, the Buddha said, ‘Even if I were to teach it, since nobody would understand it...’”

His Holiness added, “Then when teaching the Four Noble Truths he explained their sixteen aspects such as impermanence, suffering, emptiness and selflessness in relation to the noble truth of suffering. In other words, Buddhist doctrine entails the Four Seats of the Teaching, the points which distinguish the words of the Buddha: All composite things are impermanent, All contaminated things are in the nature of suffering, All phenomena are empty and selfless, Nirvana is true peace.

These statements show the reality of the basis, path and result, which demonstrate how extensive the Buddhist philosophical view is.”

The address went on to say, “Amongst the world’s many religions, Buddhism has the broadest range of philosophical tenets, the most extensive range of philosophical views.

When explaining what these teachings mean the leading Nalanda masters and scholars followed the Buddha’s own maxim: O monks and scholars. As gold is tested by burning, cutting and rubbing, you must examine my words thoroughly and accept them only thennot just out of respect for me. The Buddha tells his followers not to accept his words at face value just out of faith and devotion to him. He advises them instead to check whether they hold up in the light of logic and reason.

Not only should they comply with logic and reason the Buddha also instructs his followers to compare what he teaches with their own experience to assess their benefit in practice.”

“The Buddha stated that only through such

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DHARAMSHALA DEHRA MCLEODGANJ DISTT. KANGRA. (H.P.) 176215

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of Nalanda expounded Buddhist teaching with precise logic and reasoning. Today, Buddhist philosophical views can be compared to advanced scientific theory. Essentially, Einstein also said something to this effect.”

“So, my Dharma friends in Singapore, most of you follow Chinese Buddhist traditions.

But you also pay attention to the works of exalted Nagarjuna such as The Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way just as we do.

There is also the concise Perfection of Wisdom text, the Heart Sutra, which most of us recite by heart. Hence, we share the vast, deep Buddhist teachings derived from the great Nalanda tradition the essence of which is the awakening mind of the Bodhichitta, spurred on by love and compassion, and the view of the emptiness, which supports it. Today, this twofold approach of method and wisdom is beneficial on an individual as well as a wider level. Why is that so? The awakening mind of Bodhichitta, driven by love and compassion, brings peace of mind and peace of mind brings about peaceful individuals and peaceful families. Ultimately, for the whole world to be at peace we must have inner peace. If we lack inner peace and are instead arrogant, jealous and competitive, full of all sorts of emotions and preconceptions, peace in the world will be hard to find. “ Stressing on world peace like always, His Holiness added, “Therefore, a sense of altruism is the foundation of world peace while the view of dependent arising which supports it, is like a scientific concept. Among scientists there are many who are interested in notions of interdependence and relativity, aren’t there?

So, the conduct of non-violence and the view of interdependence can be of service to the world.”

His Holiness concluded, touching hearts, with, “However, I am not saying that everyone should become Buddhist. It would be much better if they continue to follow their own religious traditions. But what I want to suggest to you is how Buddhism can be of service to the world.

Of course, my spiritual brothers and sisters, you are already aware of what I have mentioned here. But I have said these things again thinking there’s nothing wrong in stressing [on] what is important. Please keep these points in mind.

Thank you very much.”

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Horoscopes for the Month of July, 2016 Source: Always Astrology ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Look into family outings or projects. Job changes are in order. Go for interviews or send out resumes.

Make decisions about your professional objectives.

Don’t trust coworkers with important or personal in formation. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Sunday.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- may 21) You will need to finalize important deals this month. You can make headway if you share your intentions with someone you care about. You’re on the right track and you can make money if you are willing to go out on a limb. Try to get away with your mate. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Monday.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Don’t let others try to create unwarranted guilt if you can’t meet their demands. You will need to work diligently in order to accomplish even the smallest amount. You can have an enjoyable time if you socialize with friends. You are able to make changes in your home that will be favorable to all involved. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Tuesday.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Try to avoid any drastic/ decisions concerning personal legal matters. Don’t be afraid to talk to close friends or relatives about pressing personal problems. Channel your energy wisely and you can score points with the boss. Unexpected bills will be impossible for you to pay. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Wednesday.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Don’t push your mate if you want to keep this union going. Look into real estate. Put some energy into getting back into shape. Listen to reason. You will have good ideas for home improvement projects. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Tuesday.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Look for something entertaining to do. You’ve got that competitive edge. Find a quiet spot where you can work diligently and stay out of the way. Be discreet with private information.

Pleasure trips will promote romance. Your diplomacy will be of utmost importance this month. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Monday.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You will gain knowledge through your adventure. You can make new friends and get involved in new hobbies successfully. Creative endeavors will give you somewhat of an outlet.

Avoid boredom by being creative in your endeavors. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Wednesday.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You’re in the mood to spend time with y o u r l o v e r. Yo u c a n m e e t p o t e n t i a l n e w mates, but make sure that they aren’t already committed to someone else. Your ideas will be well received. Do not expect too much from others. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Wednesday.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Don’t play on your partner ’s emotions.

Don’t push your mate away. Be cautious who you deal with financially. Your interests could lead you down avenues you never realized existed. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Social activities that involve the whole family will be enjoyable. You should be setting up interviews or sending out your resume this month. Difficulties will result if you have to deal with controversial groups this month. You need to mingle with people who can spark enthusiasm and confidence in you. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Sunday.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Your compassion will be appreciated more than you can imagine. Look into ways to make your home more comfortable. Be sure to question any detail that you feel could leave you in a precarious position at a later date. Real estate investments will payoff. Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Monday.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Get involved in groups and organizations that are of a distinguished nature. You can get ahead if you work diligently behind the scenes. You will be up and down emotionally. You can pick up additional responsibility that will lead to higher wages and a better position.Your luckiest events this month will occur on a Saturday.

The Tibet Post International

TPI NEWS

H IS H OLINESS T HE D ALAI L AMA

July 15, 2016

5

Tibetans and supporters around the Kashag on His Holiness birthday, a big day for Tibet world mark His Holiness’ birthday

By Ana Sarank: July 07, 2016

By Aakriti Bansal: July 08, 2016

Dharamshala — As Tibetans and supporters all over the world celebrated His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 81st birthday on July 6, thousands of Tibetans and supporters also participated in various events in London, Tokyo, Shillong, and Moscow, to mark the Birthday celebrations.

The office of Tibet in London hosted a reception at the historic St Ethulburga’s centre for reconcilation and peace on 6th July to celebrate the blissful occasion of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 81st birthday.

More than 90 guests joined the celebration including many renowned officials of London such as heads of religious organisations, Tibet charities and Tibet support groups, academicians as well as chairman of Tibetan community in Britain.

The celebrations began on a spiritual note with a short Tibetan buddhist prayer. Later on Mr Chonpel Tsering, representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama for Northern Europe, Baltic states and Poland welcomed the guests and thanked them for joining the joyous occasion.

A short video clip containing His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s message urging all his friends and well wishers to be more compassionate and spread love and peace among everyone was played. A young Tibetan singer from Bristol, Tashi Dhundup, performed two solo songs in tribute to Dalai Lama’s 81st birthday.

Overall the ceremony was quite impressive and huge showcasing Tibet’s varied culture and rich heritage. Likewise Tibetan community in Britain celebrated his holiness the Dalai Lama’s 81st birthday at a magnificent venue in north east London and it was attended by more than 300 people.

The 81st birthday of the Tibetan spirtiual leader was celebrated at the Aurobindo Institute of Indian culture in Shillong, on july 6.

Hundreds of Tibetans and supporters took part in the “first public celebration of the spiritual leader’s birthday in the north east”.

The celebration was organised by the Core Group for Tibetan Cause, an apex coordinating body of Tibet Support groups all over India, in collaboration with the Aurobindo Ashram and Asian Confluence.

The chief advisor of the state government, DD Lapang said that “ The Dalai Lama is an ocean of wisdom. He took up a dual role of a political leader as well as a religious figure for the Tibetan citizens.”

The programme concluded by showcasing a photo exhibition on life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and a cultural show by Tibetan artists settled in different parts of north east regions and Indian cultural troops.

The celebration witnessed the participation of people from all the north East states and included speeches on the theme ‘peace and environment of Himalya region’ by the imminent speakers of the country.

Over 1,300 people, including dignitaries from Republic of Kalmykia, Republic of Tuva, and Zabaikalsk Region attended the celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday celebrations in Moscow, the capital city of Russia, Moscow July 7. The event held at big

concert hall of the Moscow Institute of Aviation was jointly organized by the Moscow Tibet Office and Save Tibet Foundation.

In his opening remarks Telo Tulku Rinpoche, His Holiness’ the Dalai Lama’s representative to Russia, Mongolia and CIS countries, talked about the importance of His Holiness message of love, kindness and compassion for today’s world torn apart by wars, conflicts and misunderstanding among people.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama has been traveling unceasingly around the globe giving lectures and teachings, speaking at various conferences and forums, bringing blessings and consolation to thousands of people”, said Telo Tulku stressing that every follower of His Holiness should consider spreading his message of love, kindness and compassion to be his or her personal responsibility.

In Delhi, the capital of India, the occasion was commenced with rectitation of prayers in the morning by the Tibetans and supporters. Mr Kiran Rijiju Minister of State for home affairs graced the auspicious occassion.

In his remarks, Kiran said that India has been blessed with the benign presence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.The formal program was followed by cultural performances by the school children of TCV Day school, Regional Tibetan Women’s Association and individuals.

In the evening, Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, New Delhi hosted a grand dinner reception in celebration of the Birthday of His Holiness.

It was attended by many Indian Officials. The event held at Silver Oak, Indian Habitat Centre was attended by more than 300 people.

The reception started with the short recitation of a prayer by monks of Drepung Loseling monastery. His Eminence the 17th Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorjee released the Book on His Holiness the Dalai Lama published and launched

by Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Ambassador Dalip Mehta, former secretary of Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India was the main speaker of the event.

In Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, over 3,000 people thronged the 2016 Blessing Concert for His Holiness the Dalai Lama organized by the Gaden Shartse Center in Taipei at the National Dr. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall. Of those who addressed this event were Representative Dawa Tsering and Khen Rinpoche Jangchup Choeden.

The Tibet Museum showcased a rare photo exhibition on His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s life, during the 81st birthday celebration of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama in Singapore on July 6, 2016. The celebration organized by the Singapore Tibetan Buddhist Centre, witnessed the participation of around one thousand local Singaporean as well as Tibetans working and studying in Singapore. The chief guest of the event was His Eminence Garchen Rinpoche.

Other dignitaries who attended the event were Consular of Indian High Commission in Singapore and former Ambassador of Singapore to Hong Kong.

Thousands of people from all over the world also wished him on his 81st birthday, through social networking sites like twitter, facebook, whatsapp, wechat, wechat, pinterest, line, viber etc.

Celebrations of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 81st Birthday, in Delhi, Moscow, Taipaei, Moscow. Photo: CTA/DIIR

Dharamshala — It was a spectacular show for all to see within the main Tibetan temple in Mcleod Ganj on July 6, His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama’s 81st birthday. People poured in enormous numbers to witness the program. While His Holiness couldn’t be present currently being in the southern part of India, Kalon Sonam Topgyal Khorlatsang addressing the huge gathering on behalf of the kashag, gave a nostalgic speech reminding the crowd of His Holiness vision.

Starting off the address with an affectionate salute to His Holiness, Kalon Sonam Topgyal Khorlatsang expressed “deepest reverence to His Holiness the Dalai Lama” on behalf of the Kashag and Tibetans from around the world.

He went on by conveying lines in remembrance of His Holiness’ parents, “On this very day in 1935, following numerous auspicious signs and symbols, Lhamo Dhondup was born to father Choekyong Tsering and mother Dekyi Tsering in Taktser village, located in the Amdo region of Tibet. We owe deep gratitude to the great parents for blessing us with their precious son.”

“His Holiness’ birth at the fringes of the Tibetan plateau is similar to previous great Lamas and several Dalai Lamas who have chosen specific birthplaces to signify unity in Tibet,” he added.

Kalon Sonam Topgyal Khorlatsang expressed how His Holiness the Great Dalai Lama had a ‘vision of a strong united Tibet’ from a very young age. “Enthroned as the 14th Dalai Lama at the age of five, he had to take over the spiritual and temporal authority of Tibet at the tender age of 16, at a time when the People’s Republic of China illegally occupied Tibet. The young Dalai Lama immediately formed the Reform Committee to cater to the welfare of poor Tibetans, irrespective of their provincial or religious affiliations. This committee intrinsically helped strengthen Tibetan unity”, he noted.

The statement also heavily emphasised on Tibetan unity, which His Holiness also always lays stress on in all his addresses. It greatly condemned the actions of extremist groups too.

“Our exile history tells us that for the first few decades, there have been instances of regional and sectarian discord but they have been diluted overtime. Since the 90s, for two decades, harmony and unity among Tibetans was widespread and were

Thousands of Tibetans and supporters gathering at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala, India, to mark the 81st birthday celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, on July 6, 2016. Photo: TPI/Choneyi Sangpo

at its peak. Hence in 2011, His Holiness believing in Tibetan unity and political maturity accordingly devolved his political authority to the elected leadership.”

“However, during the final round of the 2016 election of Sikyong and the members of the Tibetan Parliamentin-Exile, traits of regionalism was raised. His Holiness was hurt as made clear from his speech during the 2016 swearing-in-ceremony of Sikyong. “I was pained to see the degradation of morality and the overtones of regional biases during the election campaign. It is very unfortunate. The unity of the three traditional provinces of Tibet is of primary importance. Therefore, we should do away with this warped sense of biases to regions and move on as one. If you consider me your friend, please pay attention to what I have said.”

“This remark by His Holiness the Dalai Lama bears a disconcerting resemblance to the ones given in 1959 and 1960. Instead of progression, the final elections witnessed regression. Regional biases were not only expressed, but acted upon, thereby creating disharmony. However there is a window of opportunity for us to rectify our mistakes and redefine our destiny. Mahatma Gandhi had said, “Your beliefs become your thoughts, thoughts become words, words become actions,

actions become habits, habits become values and values become your destiny.” Therefore, we urge Tibetans everywhere to remove their regional and sectarian partisanship from their thoughts, words and actions because we cannot afford to churn them into our destiny”, he said from the statement.

He mentioned all the prestigious awards His Holiness has been bestowed with, winning His Holiness a strong support for the cause of Tibet that included His Holiness receiving the Nobel Peace Prize and being recognized globally as a “messenger of peace and harbinger of hope and harmony”. He also mentioned His Holiness receiving the US Congressional Gold Medal, and recognition of His Holiness’ work for environment and humanity. “Over the last few decades, His Holiness has visited 67 countries spanning six continents and authored over 100 books, advocating global peace and harmony. His Holiness’ magnanimity and his pioneering accomplishments have provided a firm support for the cause of Tibet.” He added.

He expressed his deep gratitude to the Indian state and community for their ‘unflinching support’ and concluded by conveying his heartfelt respect and regards to His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama and wishing His Holiness a long healthy life.

Indians have a cultural affinity towards Tibet: Vijay Kranti, Indian journalist

(1) Comic cover of DALAI LAMA: THE SOLDIER OF PEACE and (2) Vijay Kranti, Indian journalist. Photo: File

By Tahhira Somal: July 12, 2016

Dharamshala — On the grand occasion of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 81st birthday reputed author, photographer and journalist Mr Vijay Kranti released the Hindi version of the comic ‘Dalai LamaThe Soldier of Peace’ based on the Tibetan Leader’s life called – ‘Dalai Lama Ki Saahas Gatha’, which translates into ‘The courageous story of Dalai Lama’.

The comic’s contents consist of Tibet’s journey from a free country to a seized one. It also wonderfully tells the story of the Dalai Lama’s life right from being discovered by the Tibetan Lamas to having to escape the Chinese claws and reaching Indian soil safely in beautiful illustrations painted by Sodhon.

The release of th e comic in Hindi after being published in English and Tibetan reminds us of the close-knit

Tibetan-Indian relationship. Mr Kranti was interviewed regarding the comic and the aforementioned. The main intention of the comic is to make the Indian community and neighboring people aware about the reality of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan refugees.

“Indians have a cultural affinity towards Tibet but the ordinary Indian is not aware of the basic situation of Tibet. The Tibetan leadership has failed to bridge the communication gap. When Indians are made aware they will be very sympathetic”, Mr Kranti told the Tibet Post International (TPI).

The books comical nature is an asset to telling any story said the author, “communication has so many ways and my motive is to reach out to people with the truth and a comic is a mix of many things making it more effective. It is a colorful package, an art work, a story retold.”

Mr Kranti also disclosed what got him so engrossed in supporting the Tibetan cause; he said, “The whole love affair started when I was a professional. In 1972 I got the opportunity to interview His Holiness and observed the young Tibetans discipline and dedication towards their leader and also the Dalai Lama’s commitment to his country and his people, I was impressed.”

Finally, the author told the TPI, what a happy coincidence it was to have the Hindi version of the comic book, which was a pre-planned publication to coincide with His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday.

ICT slams delegates for endorsing Beijing propaganda on Tibet

By Tahhira Somal: July 12, 2016

Dharamshala — The ‘Development Forum’ held in Lhasa from 7th-8th of July 2016 resulted in a ‘Lhasa Consensus’ document once again, this time in the panorama of apparent stimulation of sustainable development and the betterment of Tibet environmentally as well as economically. More than 130 researchers, officials and correspondents from over 30 countries reportedly participated in this event.

The content of the Lhasa Consensus talks about policies aimed at the conservation of the Tibetan plateau where China is building dams on all the major rivers and using up the mineral resources to employ as assets. Other policies have consequences such as displacing the nomadic pastoralists which has shown to have ill effects on the health of the rangeland and harmful for the climate.

Apart from the documents artful wording the concern is drawn to the issue of controlled media and inability of independent organizations or individuals to examine the area. This was made evident when Michael Brand, a German lawmaker who chairs the Bundestag’s Human Rights Committee, was refused to enter China in May after he criticized rights

violations in Tibet.

The International Campaign for Tibet, a U.S.-based NGO’s president Matteo Mecacci criticized the consensus saying, “The organization of international gatherings by authoritarian governments to gain legitimacy abroad is not a new effort and is a worrying trend aimed at stifling and isolating local dissenting views in many countries. The participation of individuals representing international organizations in such events needs to be scrutinized, since it fosters the regimes’ propaganda.”

“In the case of Tibet, it is astonishing that foreign individuals representing respectable institutions would endorse Beijing propaganda, while hundreds of Tibetan political prisoners are still in jail for expressing their views and while Tibet continues to be practically sealed off to all independent observers and institutions, such as UN rapporteurs and major international NGOs. Beijing has the economic might to recruit foreign endorsements to its propaganda, it is therefore up to democratic governments, free press, think tanks, NGOs and academics to make sure that the integrity of an open, transparent and democratic debate is preserved when issues concerning the lives

of millions of people are discussed.”

“Participating in ‘Potemkin tours’ and failing to raise questions publicly about the information regularly produced by independent observers does not contribute to the credibility of such participants or their institutions.”

A similar document like this was produced in 2014, which attacked His Holiness the Dalai Lama for promoting a distorted view of Tibet to the world. In 2014, not most western attendees were happy with this document. In a statement, the former mayor of Christchurch, New Zealand, Sir Bob Parker said that he was not happy to be associated with the document.

A UK-based group called Free Tibet’s director remarked, “The statement issued at the end of this event makes clear that the whole thing was an utterly cynical exercise in propaganda which Western participants blindly or willingly allowed themselves to become part of.” The Tibetan National Congress (TNC) had also expressed their concern over the far and wide participation of the international community in this propaganda. After the conspicuous arrangement in the previous document, the credibility of the one circulated this year is also questionable.

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Jume 30, 2016

TPI NEWS

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His Holiness’ Birthday celebration in Lithang MEPs pay tribute to His Holiness

MEPs and dignitaries, guest gathering in Brussels, on June 30 to mark the 81st birthday celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Photo: CTA/DIIR

By Yeshe Choesang, July 07, 2016

Brussels — Members of the European Parliament extended his warmest birthday wishes to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, on his 81st birthday.

“You are and you will be a role model of a peaceful human approach in every situation of life,” said Mr Thomas Mann, a German MEP from the European People’s Party, the biggest Political Group in the European Parliament and the Chair of the Tibet Interest Group (TIG).

“For your 81st birthday, we promise to continue our work here in the European Parliament in Brussels and of course in Strasbourg”, Mr Mann said on Thursday July 5 2016.

“Since 15 years, I am privileged to be leader of European parliamentarians who support your middle way approach, Your Holiness the Dalai Lama. Every year we celebrate your birthday in Brussels last week in the very famous Albert Hall. I am happy to say that our work as a cross party group reaches visible results.”

“In February 2014, we celebrated our 100th TIG meeting with 300 participants all over the world. We fight against torture, suppression and illegal imprisonment. In December 2015, the European parliament passed a report on the EU China relations.”

“We successfully integrated a large number of amendment about the human rights situation, environmental pollution and the law on counter terrorism. We published statements about the Tibetan uprising on the 10 March 2016 and we were present during the demonstration on the Schuman square

in Brussels.”

“As president of Tibet Interest Group, I was a member of a International Election Observing Mission to Dharamshala, together with parliamentarians from three different countries. I spent one week in the political capital of the Tibetans in exile.

“The overall impression was that the Tibetans hold their elections democratically, professionally and with great passion. A personal high was ofcourse, the private audience of our team with you holiness.”

“For your 81st birthday, we promise to continue our work here in the European parliament in Brussels and of course in Strasbourg. Again, Happy birthday Holiness and Tashi Delek,” Mr Mann said in a video message to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on his 81st birthday.

The bureau du Tibet, Brussels, held its annual reception at the Albert Hall Complex, a flagship event venue in the heart of the European quarter, June 30 to celebrate the 81st birthday of the spiritual leader.

The reception was attended by diplomats, EU officials, Members of the European and Belgian Parliament, Parliamentary A s s i s t a n t s , o ff i c i a l s o f t h e B e l g i u m government, officials of the EU institutions, Representatives of the Tibetan Buddhist C e n t e r s , Ti b e t a n C o m m u n i t i e s , Ti b e t Support Groups, various international NGO’s, scholars and journalists.

The Nobel Peace Prize laureate has stated repeatedly that he is not seeking independence for Tibet. “We are not seeking independence. Yet Chinese history books record the existence of three distinct and equal empires - China, Mongolia and Tibet - in the 7th, 8th and 9th centuries,” His Holiness told NHK television, in Osaka, Japan on May 9, 2016.

“However, that is the past. Now we are looking to the future. I admire the spirit of the European Union in which members accord greater importance to the common interest than national sovereignty,” he said, adding: “We need greater material development in Tibet and China can help us with that, provided we can keep our own language and traditions alive.”