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Understanding selflessness is unique to Buddhism: His Holiness

By Molly Lortie: October 11, 2016

SIkyong Dr Lobsang Sangay and Finance Kalon Mr Karma Yeshi at the press conference on October 3, 2016. Photo: CTA/DIIR

By Molly Lortie: October 3, 2016

Dharamshala — The Tibetan government in exile announced in a press conference today that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has awarded a grant of 23 million USD in order to strengthen self-reliance and resilience of Tibetan communities in South Asia.

The grant is effective from October 1, 2016 and will be awarded over a period of five years.

The overall goal of the program is to strengthen the selfreliance and resilience of Tibetans and Tibetan communities in South Asia by equipping them to thrive economically, become effective leaders; and maintaining the vitality of Tibetan communities and institutions while sustaining their unique identity and culture.

According to a press release from the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), key program areas consist of leadership development, including institutional capacity building; establishing of a banking-like institution; and an integrated settlement development through community participatory process.

The programs will maximize local participation and ownership of the development process and a crosscutting gender component will incorporate women’s perspective and participation in the design and implementation of all sustainable livelihoods strategies.

CTA will partner with the Tibet Fund and other organizations and make maximum efforts to achieve the core program goals.

Riga, Latvia — Observing an understanding of selflessness, which is unique to Buddhist teachings, His Holiness the Dalai Lama said that unique quality enables us to reduce our exaggerated way of looking at things.

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama arrived in Riga, the capital of Latvia, to begin a two day teaching on October 10th. Organized

by Save Tibet, His Holiness was greeted early Monday morning in Riga’s Skonto Hall by an eager audience of 4500.

Over 3000 came from Russia, while roughly 500 were from Kalmykia, 300 from Buryatia and 100 from Tuva. The spiritual leader’s teachings are being translated and webcast in English, Latvian, Estonian, Russian and Mongolian, as well as Tibetan.

“Here we are once again in Latvia,” His Holiness began, “and I’d like to thank the organizers for creating this opportunity for me to give some explanation of Buddhist teachings. Not so long ago when I was here to give an introduction to Buddhism, a Russian told me how difficult it is for many of his compatriots to travel to India because of economic constraints. He told me it would be much easier for them to come to Latvia. I said I would look into it and was pleased to find my friends here supported the idea—so here we are and a huge number of people have come.

“The Buddha,” His Holiness explained, “was born into a royal family, renounced that comfortable life and engaged in austerities for six years. Eventually he sat under the Bodhi tree near the Niranjana River and attained enlightenment. Although he pondered whether anyone else would understand what he had realised, he found his former companions in austerities and explained to them the Four Noble Truths. These constitute the first Turning of the Wheel of Dharma and form the basis of both the Pali and Sanskrit traditions of Buddhism.

“Also belonging to the Nalanda tradition, Dignaga and Dharmakirti wrote about logic and epistemology. The teaching we are going to go through today comes from Dharmakirti’s

His Holiness the Dalai Lama during his teaching in Riga, Latvia on October 10, 2016. Photo/Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL

‘Commentary on Dignaga’s ‘Compendium of Valid Cognition’’.

Since I had heard that in the early 20th century a Russian scholar Fyodor Shcherbatskoy translated some of Dharmakirti’s works into Russian and English, when we were discussing what I should teach, we decided that the second chapter of Dharmakirti’s classic work on Valid Cognition’’ would be appropriate.”

His Holiness observed that an understanding of selflessness, which is unique to Buddhist teachings, enables us to reduce our exaggerated way of looking at things. He reported that American

China detains a man allegedly linked to self-Immolation protest in Tibet

Former HP CM applauds Tibetan Parliament proceedings

By Molly Lortie: October 6, 2016

Dharamshala—Shri Shanta Kumar, former Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh and current member of Indian Parliament, sent a letter on October 5th to the Tibetan Parliamentary Secretariat today expressing his admiration on the efficient nature of the Tibetan Parliament.

The former chief minister visited the Tibetan parliament on September 28th to witness the second session of the 16th Tibetan parliament.

In the letter, he said: “I am honored to have got the opportunity to witness the proceedings of the Tibetan Parliament on 28 September.

I am also very impressed with the efficient and effective functioning of the parliamentary procedures.”

“The proceedings were calm, dignified and very disciplined. There weren’t any violent display of emotions and resistance as is often the case in parliaments in other parts of India,” he said.

“Even after staying such a long time away from Tibet, the Tibetan administration and the Tibetan Parliament are functioning effectively and doing its job successfully. It is itself a very noteworthy achievement,” he added.

“The Tibetan parliament is elected through a vibrant democratic system and the credit of this successful democratic institution goes to the efforts of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan leaders,” he noted.

(R-L) Shri Shanta Kumar, former chief minister of HP and current member of Lok Sabha along with his delegation watching the proceedings of a session of 16th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile on 28 September 2016. Photo: CTA/DIIR

Undated photo of Sangdak Kyab, who was recently arrested by authorities for his alleged link to a Tibetan self-immolation protest in Tibet, in 2013. Photo: File

By Yeshe Choesang: October 13, 2016

Dharamshala — A sources says that Tibetan man accused of supporting a self-immolation protest in Sangkhok township in Amdo region of eastern Tibet has been taken into custody by Chinese police after evading arrest for three years.

Sangdak Kyab was detained at around 5:00 p.m. on September 29, 2016, by 10 Chinese authorities who arrived at his home in Sangkhok township, Sangchu County (Ch: Xiahe, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province), Amdo region of northeastern Tibet, a Tibetan source said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

“Sangdak’s wife Jamkyi asked Chinese police the reason for her husband’s arrest, to which the police replied that ‘she knew the reason very well,’” the source said, citing contacts in the county.

Following a self-immolation protest in 2013 in Sangchu County, Sangdak and three others were accused of transporting the protester’s remains to the man’s home so that they would not be seized by police, the source said.

Three who were caught—Dorje Namgyal, Jinpa, and Dorje Tashi—were sentenced to terms of from two-and-a-half to threeand-a-half years which they have now served, but Kyab escaped arrest and went into hiding.

“This year, after seeing the others had been released, Kyab returned home thinking that the situation had been resolved, but the police then raided his house,” the source continued. adding that “he is now being held in detention”.

Chinese police called Sandak Kyab’s family on October 6, saying

they would be allowed to bring food to him in jail, but that the food should not be cooked at home, the source added.

“Instead, the food should be prepared in a restaurant, the authorities said. And they instructed further that while Sangdak Kyab would be permitted to receive meat, that meat should contain no bones.”

Food brought by Kyab’s wife the following day was taken inside the jail, but she was not allowed to visit, the source said. “So no information is available about his present state of health or whether he has been tortured in jail,” the source further added.

At least 144 self-immolation protests by Tibetans living under Chinese rule have taken place since 2009; over 85 in 2012, with 28 in the month of November 2012 alone. More than 100 of these protesters are known to have died. Those who have selfimmolated called for freedom for Tibet and the return of the Dalai Lama.

Tibet was invaded by Communist China, starting in 1949, Beijing calls a “peaceful liberation”. Since that time, over 1.2 million out of 6 Tibetans have been killed, over 6000 monasteries have been destroyed— the acts of murder, rape and arbitrary imprisonment, torture and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment were inflicted on the Tibetans inside Tibet.

In Tibet today, Tibetans are being arbitrarily arrested, imprisoned and tortured for merely expressing their suffering under Chinese rule. However, authorities in Beijing still claim that “China ‘peacefully liberated’ Tibet, and that the Tibetans are living in a “Maoist socialist paradise.”

psychiatrist Aaron Beck had told him something similar, that when we are angry or attached to something or someone, they appear wholly negative or wholly attractive. In fact, Beck declared, this is 90% mental projection.

So, reflecting on emptiness along with the awakening mind of bodhichitta is a source of peace of mind. His Holiness said that such inner peace fosters health, well-being and longevity.

Moreover, he added, if we follow the approach of the sharpwitted and apply reason in our studies, the Buddhist tradition will survive a long time.

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His Holiness to visit Arunachal next year ByYeshe Choesang: October 13, 2016

New Delhi — His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama has confirmed his visit to Arunachal Pradesh in the second week of March next year,” said recently elected AP Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who led a delegation.

The pious soul conveyed this to Chief Minister Pema Khandu when he along with his delegation had an audience in a city hotel at New Delhi recently and requested for His Holiness’s benevolent visit to the state.

During the audience, Khandu said “I take this occasion to greet your Holiness to shower your radiance on the fellow beings in this vitiated milieu of unmitigated conflicts amongst the mankind.”

“With all humility, I take the privilege of this audience with your Holiness to once again represent the aspirations of my people to be blessed with your benevolent visit to Arunachal Pradesh, Mr Khandu said.

“We are eagerly waiting for the cherished moments of your holy presence in Arunachal Pradesh”. Khandu conveyed the prayers of the people of Arunachal for His Holiness’s long years of cheerful health and extraordinary wisdom,” Khandu continued.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama in his advice to the delegation called for adopting compassionate approach while dealing with the public. “You are public servants, so you should all come out from the party lines to live upto the people’s aspirations” the Dalai Lama said.

The spiritual leader of Tibet also shared the pain of growing hatred in the world and said that no religion in the world advocates ill treatment to others. Peace and compassion should be adopted in letter and spirit to achieve the peace of mind, he advised.

“His Holiness humbly accepted the invitation and tentatively fixed the dates of his visit to Arunachal in second week of March 2017,” the delegation said.

Khandu, 37, is the son of former Arunachal Pradesh CM Dorjee Khandu, who died in a helicopter crash in 2011. He served in Tuki’s cabinet as minister.

Arunachal Pradesh delegation led by Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Arunachal Legislative Assembly Speaker TN Thongdok meeting with His Holiness the Dalai Lama in New Delhi, India, on October 11, 2016. Photo: AP Times

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October 15, 2016

TALK ON TIBET TPI NEWS after What the World’s silence on Tibet is Costing the World?

Monk disappeared arbitrarily arrested in Tibet

Undated photo of detained Lodoe,39, a Tibetan Buddhist monk from Jonang monastery in Ngaba County, eastern Tibet. Photo: TDT

By Yangchen Dolma: September 30, 2016

Dharamshala — A Tibetan monk detained in June this year by Chinese police in Ngaba County of northeastern Tibet has suddenly disappear after being taken into custody, with authorities refusing to provide details of his whereabouts or any charges made against him.

Lodoe, a Buddhist monk from the Jonang monastery in Dzamthang County (Ch: Rangtang, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan), Ngaba, north-eastern Tibet, was seized by Chinese police on June 14, 2016, while walking with friends to buy food in neighboring Barkham County, a Tibet source said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

“He was taken away in handcuffs without explanation and has been held in custody ever since,” TPI source said, citing contacts in the region. “His monastery and family and relatives have repeatedly asked the authorities for information about him, but have never received any answers,” the source said, adding that “three months later, his whereabouts remain unknown.”

Report of Lodoe’s detention was delayed in reaching outside contacts owing to communication blocks imposed by Chinese authorities in the County and the surrounding areas well. Lodoe, 36, is a native of

Ngatoe Tsida village in Ngaba Dzamthang, the source continued, saying “his father’s name is Tsikthok and his mother’s name is Dzokre.”

“This is a very frustrating situation, and his family and relatives are deeply concerned about his welfare and current condition,” the same source stressed, saying the Chinese police is deliberately pursuing repressive policies in Tibet.

Another Tibetan monk, Gedun Dakpa, 39, from Thangkor Soktsang Monastery in Dzoege County of Ngaba County was reportedly arrested on August 24, 2016 from his monaster. The Chinese officials have stated that he was kept ‘under detention’ and being interrogated and questioned about the monastery’s finances and operating fund. However, nothing more has been heard about him since then,” another source said.

The source also added that his friends believe his accessing of news coming from outside Tibet through social media and messaging applications (WeChat) may have been the reason for his arrest. The monk’s family members have been since seeking more information on his whereabouts and his current physical condition. However, they have not been able to receive any further information of him.

Protest at Chinese embassy calls on Xi to stop destroying Larung Gar

By Yangchen Dolma: October 14, 2016

New Delhi — Scores of Tibetan activists protested outside the Chinese embassy on Friday in New Delhi ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to India for BRICS summit. Protesters call on Xi to “stop the illegal demolition of Larung Gar.” ‘Over a hundred activists from Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) gathered at the Chinese Embassy in Delhi on October 14, to protest the illegal demolition of Larung Gar, one of the largest centres of Buddhist learning in Tibet, by China,’ according to a TYC statement.

Security was increased at the embassy before the visit. Members of TYC, who protested against Chinese President Xi Jinping in New Delhi, are also expected to protest in Goa. Security was also beefed up in Goa before his visit, according to media reports.

“The obvious concern is regarding religious freedom for the thousands of monks and nuns that have renounced the world and made Larung Gar their home just to practice their religion,” the TYC said in a statement issued on Thursday.

“As the Chinese government continues to manipulate the number of monks and nuns in monasteries all over Tibet, this directly obstructs the practice of religion for many,” it said, adding that “It has been reported that three nuns from the monastery have committed suicide protesting the demolition.”

“As long as the occupation continues, as long as the communist government continues with their hardline stance and policies, ignoring the cries of the Tibetan people, the struggle and resistance of Tibetans will continue,” said TYC President

Tenzing Jigme in a statement.

“This is a clear sign of the Chinese governments policies to wipe out Tibetan language, culture and identity. It also shows that Tibetans in Tibet have no freedom of religion and the right to preserve their culture. We condemn the illegal demolition of Larung Gar and demand Xi Jinping to stop the destruction immediately”, Tenzing Jigme added.

Xi will be visiting Goa between October 15 and 17 for the summit. The TYC demanded that China stop its “illegal occupation” of Tibet while expressing concern over the “current critical situation”.

“Those of living in exile have even greater duty and responsibility and we vow to keep our struggle alive and lend our voices to the voiceless and ensure that everywhere Xi Jinping travels, we will be there to expose the lies of the communist Chinese Government,” Jigme continued.

TYC is the largest Tibetan NGO in exile and regional chapters of the organization is organizing protests throughout India during Xi’s visit to India. “We express our outrage and condemn the desecration of heritage sites like Larung Gar in Tibet. The organization has also submitted petitions to the US State Department, UN and UNESCA urging for an intervention on this issue,” the TYC said.

Tibet was invaded by Communist China, starting in 1949, Beijing calls a “peaceful liberation”.

Since that time, over 1.2 million out of 6 Tibetans have been killed, over 6000 monasteries have been destroyed— the acts of murder, rape and arbitrary imprisonment, torture and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment were inflicted on the Tibetans inside Tibet.

The Tibet Post International

By Lavanya Vemsani, MyIndMakers: October 07, 2016.

Buddhist monks of Tibet cannot write letters to world leaders or the UN unlike the Muslims clerics in Palestine and South Asia.

The Tibetan monks also cannot get the media attention that some of the Islamic terrorist groups get, which perpetrate heinous crimes in Israel and India. However, the suffering of Tibet is well established in the past, although the information has declined drastically in the past few years. The UNHRC (United Nations Human Rights Council) during its recent sessions in Geneva last week (September 21-22) leveled intense criticism against China regarding its human rights violations in Tibet.

In addition to the EU statement, the USA, Germany, France and UK also expressed concerns and released independent statements on human rights violations in Tibet. Still the media coverage of Tibet issue is meager when compared with other issues raised at UNHRC. Even Dalai Lama’s speech at the Parliament of European Union (EU) in France got scant media attention than the incendiary retaliatory statement issued by Chinese administration in Tibet. The Chinese administration expressed anger at Dalai Lama merely for speaking up for the rights of Tibet, and said that its “highest priority” in Tibet is to curb Dalai Lama’s influence. It is clear that China is treating Tibet not only as its subsidiary territory, but also exploiting it with its Han-centered administrative policies.

It is also surprising that the concerned Human right groups focus is India, Israel and to some extent on the West, but fail to raise their voice against state supported atrocities or terror activities committed in other parts of the world such as China (Tibet), West Asia, Middle East or Pakistan. The mild mannered Buddhists do not want to appear rash, or blame anybody for their misfortunes under totalitarian regime in current state of Tibet. But there is no excuse for the rest of the world community to remain silent on Tibet. Tibet hardly gets the attention it deserves. Hence, Tibet takes a back seat on the world stage, even though it is on the verge of collapse, if not in human terms, but in ecological terms, which when finally it happens would push the world in to an emergency situation. Should the world stay silent to the environmental and ecological cost of Tibet?

Tibet would have existed as a happy land akin to Bhutan if India and Tibet had not committed the missteps that they had committed between 1950 and 1960. Especially, India’s Himalayan mistakes are noteworthy in this instance. Under Nehruvian shortsighted foreign policy India surrendered all its treaty rights and in a more shocking gesture accepted Tibet as part of China on April 29th 1954. It is a mistake and more so since China has not given any written commitments on borders with India either accepting the McMohan line or western borders at the Aksai Chin. The shortsighted Nehruvian policies of 1954 still haunt India in its relations with China and Pakistan.

In return for this generous gesture from India, China returned battles at Barahoti (south of Niti pass) on 17th July 1954. Nehru also did not know about the secret talks between China and Pakistan in 1954 and applauded China at Bandung Afro-Asian conference. The result is that Pakistan surrendered its occupied Akai Chin area to China and China continued incursions into Indian territories on its borders, which also culminated in the war of 1961. All this is part of China’s global expansion plan including its Northern Eurasia and Africa extension plan. Tibet and Pakistan were mere pawns in this major plan of China to reach its international markets. However, the most important question is, should the world remain and and watch the ecological and human cost inflicted on the world due to China’s expansionist plans?

Chinese hegemony in Tibet brings forward two very important issues for the world: the first is geo-political and strategic balance of power and the second is ecological and environmental damage that could result in worst consequences in the form of climatic effect for the rest of the world.

International strategy is evolving fast in the Tibetan borderlands.

China has formed a formidable alliance with Russia and Pakistan. China is also moving ahead in collaboration with Russia in forging relations with Iran and other Eurasian states as far as Turkey. Unless an equally formidable alliance of nations is evolved in the South Asia and Northern Eurasia that works to liberate Tibet and Mongolia from the tight control of China, balance of power will shift in favor of China. Current conventions of geopolitical strategy proposes evolution of multipolar world in the next decade, however, the current changes in Asian alliances seem to indicate the global power balance shifting in favor of China and Russia emerging as strong allies and also as counter balance to the EU (European Union) and US (United State of America).

Although it may not seem as urgent the environmental damage in Tibet is as important as the geo-political strategy. The ecological issue is of immense importance. World had witnessed damaging floods across South Asian in the last decade. With the warming climate, and incessant developmental projects undertaken in Tibet mining, power sector, hydro-electric and geo-thermal projects, in addition to the transportation projects (road, rail, and flight network) may cause increased geological activity in the rest of the lower Himalayan zone. The lower Himalayan region is densely populated than Tibet and any geological change might cause immense damage, which will have a direct bearing on the lower regions (India, Pakistan, Myanmar, Nepal and Bangladesh). The world could not stand mute to the ecological and geological damage being done to Tibet through the Chinese interventions, which will also indirectly have an effect on the environment of the rest of the world.

Dalai Lama was precisely right in his recent comparison on the immense ecological damage of Tibet akin to the raging fire on the roof of the world. The comparison is very apt, since Tibet (3700 meters above the sea level) is the highest plateau of earth, and numerous rivers have their origin in the Himalayan zone.

Melting glaciers on the Himalayas bring increasing water flow into the Himalayan Rivers and lakes, resulting in damaging flash floods in India, Nepal, China, Japan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.

Compounded with these warming climatological issues are the geological fault lines of Himalayas, which result in earthquakes that are constant and unpredictable. China has always focused on road and train routes, and hydroelectric and water projects in the Himalayan region with little regard for it neighbors. China works hard to promote positive image of itself, calling Tibet ‘China’s Tibet’ and organizing tourism, mostly for Han Chinese from the rest of China. Tourism in Tibet increased hundred-fold between 1960 and 2010 which is reaching to about 15 million tourists generating about 18 billion Yuan ($3 billion) in 2015. Han centered tourist development commercialized Tibetan culture and religion with a view to providing an opportunity for Han Chinese to experience the minority cultures in its borderlands.

Tibet is slowly losing its identity and individuality, while quickly becoming a romanticized spiritual tourist destination for other Chinese to visit. There are immense limitations on foreign travel to Tibet. Hence, very little news or information comes out of Tibet, if at all any news leaked out, it is always about the happy camping stories in the mystic land (Shangri-la) of Tibet.

Tibetans are held under tight control, and monks commit ‘self immolation,’ to express their opposition to Chinese rule. But there is only a limited role any protest can play in a peaceful Buddhist society to demonstrate its woeful living conditions.

Chinese propaganda films depicting Dalai Lama and the Buddhist monks have failed to capture the loyalty of Tibetans.

China is using the plan of ‘waiting game’ on Tibet. It is only waiting for the current Dalai Lama to leave this world. If the current conditions of Tibetans are woefully difficult now, one can only imagine a ‘reign of terror’ to be unleashed once it gets full command of Tibet, following Dalai Lama’s exit from this world.

Syria may be strategically important in the West Asia, but Tibet is also equally important in the Eurasia and the broader Asian regional co-operation, which may have significant consequences for the world. When Tibet holds such important place in the world, any thing that happens there must be of concern for the rest of the world. One must seek more information rather than the simple official notes that trickles out of Chinese administration in Tibet. It is important that the world must pay close attention to Tibet and work for a permanent solution to the Tibet issue. It is time the world paid special attention to Tibet.

and Tibetan Affairs Commission, a vestige of the Republic of China’s claims to sovereignty over Mongolia and Tibet.

“As Tibetan human rights have degenerated in recent years and many people have self-immolated, the commission has not done anything — no events or actions whatsoever and not a penny of money for the cause of Tibetan human rights,” he said, calling the commission “useless.”

“They use the banner of Tibet to take a lot of money from Taiwanese taxpayers, but we have no idea how they spend it,” he stressed.

Ms Gu Laxi, Ms Yui Mei Ngul and Mr Ton Yi Kang, members of the Taiwanese parliament also spoke at the press conference.

The Thank you speech was delivered by Mr Tashi Tsering,

President of Tibetan community.

“Establishing this group has been my dream for more than four years,” said Tashi Tsering, from the Human Rights Network for Tibet and Taiwan, which Lim said provided the key impetus for establishing the group.

A delegation of Taiwanese parliamentarians led by Mr Lim visited the Central Tibetan Administration in September. During their visit, they met Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay and other leaders of the Tibetan community in Dharamshala.

The newly formed Taiwanese parliamentary group for Tibet has more than 30 members from various Taiwanese political parties including the New Power Party, Kuomintang party, Democratic Progressive Party.

Taiwanese lawmakers establish Taiwan Parliamentary Group for Tibet

By Yeshe Choesang: October 08, 2016.

Taipei — A Taiwan Parliamentary Group for Tibet was established by Taiwanese national legislators, to collaborate and consolidate efforts to highlight the issue of Tibet in Taiwan as well as on the international stage.

A group of Taiwanese and Tibetan lawmakers held a press conference at the Taiwanese parliamentary building on Friday, October 7, to announce the formation of a new Taiwanese parliamentary group for Tibet.

Taiwanese lawmaker Mr Freddy Lim, Chair of the Taiwanese parliamentary group for Tibet, explained the aims and objectives for establishing this parliamentary group.

Lim who serves as Tibet Support group president — also said that more than 30 legislators had agreed to affiliate themselves with the group.

He said that this parliamentary group is a bipartisan group of parliamentarians from across the Taiwanese political spectrum who will collaborate and consolidate efforts to highlight the issue of Tibet in Taiwan as well as on the international stage.

The New Power Party (NPP) legislator Lim extended the invitation to His Holiness the Dalai Lama during his visit in Dharamshala, India on September 5, along with his colleague from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, Kolas Yotaka.

Ms Xiao Mei Ching, Vice-chair of the parliamentary group, said that she has attended the World Parliamentarians Convention on Tibet several times and expressed her continued support for Tibet.

The chief guest at the press conference was Mr Dawa Tsering, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Office of Tibet based in Taipei. He thanked the Taiwanese parliamentarians for their support to Tibet and said that the Tibet issue is not restricted to independence or the Middle Way alone.

According to him, it is also about minority rights, sinicisation of Tibet through population influx, destruction of Tibet’s environment, human rights, religious freedom and cultural preservation. Mr Tsering also suggested that all these issues need to be looked into with a special focus.

“I am honestly not entirely sure what the difference is between a ‘parliamentary group’ and the past ‘working group,’ but the ‘working group’ was established by only two or three legislators,” Tsering, told the Taipei Times.

Members of the Tibetan Parliament Mr Lobsang Dakpa and Ms Tsering Lhamo, who were specially invited by the Taiwanese parliamentary group for Tibet, also addressed the press conference. They explained the political situation of Tibet and called for a collective effort to raise the issue of Tibet and more collaboration between the Tibetan and Taiwanese parliaments.

“Establishing this group has been my dream for more than four years,” said Tashi Tsering, a Tibetan leader of the Human Rights Network for Tibet and Taiwan, which Lim said provided the key impetus for establishing the group.

Tsering also expressed support for abolishing the Mongolian

A group photo of the Taiwanese parliamentarians and Tibetan parliamentarians with Representative Mr Dawa Tsering and Mr Tashi Tsering, October 7, 2016. Photo: TPI/Artemas Liu

Understanding selflessness is ...

Breaking for lunch, His Holiness dined with 15 parliamentarians from the Baltic States: two from Estonia, three from Lithuania and ten from Latvia.

Resuming his teachings after lunch, His Holiness first invited questions from the audience. In answering them he explained how much he appreciates vegetarianism and how it is now widely observed in the common kitchens of Tibetan Monasteries in India, despite his own inability, for medical reasons, to be fully vegetarian.

Continuing his reading of the second chapter of ‘Commentary on Dignaga’s ‘Compendium of Valid Cognition’’ His Holiness touched on how the Buddha became a reliable guide, and how valid cognition, being an awareness that corresponds with reality, is undeceptive. His remarks also clarified that the substantial cause of consciousness must be consciousness.

(continued from front page)

He reiterated that in explaining dependent arising the Buddha taught us how to overcome distorted views.

Such a wisdom is a powerful antidote to ignorance.

Applying it we can remove ignorance from our mental continuums. Finally, he remarked that the Buddha did not teach about suffering to scare us, but to indicate reality, the possibility of its cessation by cultivating the path. He made clear that understanding the Four Noble Truths in the context of the Two Truths—conventional and ultimate truth—is the way to take refuge in the Three Jewels on the basis of reason.

His Holiness announced that in addition to continuing to read the text tomorrow he would offer the opportunity for members of the audience to generate the awakening mind of bodhichitta.

October 15, 2016 Tibet & Exile News 3 “We pledge nonviolence to resolve Karmapa talks about the importance of nurturing compassion

TPI NEWS

The Tibet Post International

Tibet issue:” PM on Gandhi Jayanti

By Yangchen Dolma: October 10, 2016

Karmapa Rinpoche speaking to Tibetan students at Suja TCV School in HP, India. Photo: TDT

Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay lighting a butter lamp in front of a portrait of Gandhiji on Gandhi Jayanti, 2 October 2016.

Photo: CTA/DIIR

By Molly Lortie: October 3, 2016

Dharamshala—Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay, elected Prime Minister of the Ti b e t a n p e o p l e , t o d a y p l e d g e d t o a commitment of non-violence on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, the birthday of world renowned Mohandas Gandhi.

A brief ceremony, attended by members of the government and senior officials, was held at the Kashag secretariat to celebrate the occasion.

“Gandhi Jayanti is an auspicious day. Gandhiji is the father of the very successful Indian freedom struggle. His views on morality and ethics still resonate with the consciousness of humankind. Therefore, we Tibetans join in this celebration,” he told media persons.

“Today is also the international day of nonviolence as per a resolution passed by the UN

General Assembly on 15 June 2007. Following the leadership of Gandhiji, we pledge nonviolence as envisioned by His Holiness the Dalai Lama to resolve the Tibet issue,” the Prime Minister asserted.

He further outlined non-violence as the key to resolve all conflicts and urged Tibetans to imbibe the messages of peace and positivity to move forward in the struggle.

Employing non-violence and peaceful agitations against the British Raj, Gandhiji led India to independence and inspired movements for non-violence, civil rights and freedom across the world during the first half of the 20th century.

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, popularly known as Mahatma Gandhi was born in Porbandar, Gujarat on 2 October 1869 and was assassinated January 30th, 1948.

Parliament thanks Taiwan’s legislators for forming a Tibet support group

By Yangchen Dolma: October 12, 2016

Dharamshala — The Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile on Tuesday expressed gratitude towards Taiwanese national legislators for the establishment of a support group for Tibet in the Taiwanese parliament, saying it “shows the solidarity of Taiwanese parliamentarians towards the issue of Tibet.”

Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, wrote a letter to Taiwanese legislator Mr Freddy Lim— Chair of the Taiwanese parliamentary group for Tibet, to express his gratitude for forming a new parliamentary suppport group for Tibet in the Taiwanese parliament.

“The Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, on behalf of the Tibetans inside and outside Tibet, sincerely express our gratitude to you and your group for forming a new Taiwanese Parliamentary Group for Tibet in Taiwan with support from members of Taiwanese New Power Party, Kuomintang party, Democratic Progressive Party, etc,” he wrote.

“Our special thanks to you, Ms Xiao Mei Ching, Vice-chair of the Taiwanese Parliamentary Group for Tibet and your group in taking this initiative. We are very grateful and moved by this gesture in forming this Group which shows the solidarity of Taiwanese parliamentarians towards the issue of Tibet. We are

thankful for your support for the just cause of Tibet.”

“We are very appreciative of the democratic process of Taiwan, as per the will of the people which has set an important example in Asia.”

“His Holiness the Dalai Lama and many Tibetan high lamas have visited Taiwan which has laid to the foundation of religious ties between the two. Wishing for a long lasting friendship and success to the new Parliamentary Group for Tibet,” he added.

A delegation of Taiwanese parliamentarians led by Lim visited the Central Tibetan Administration in September. During their visit, they met Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay, Speaker Sonam Tenphel and other leaders of the Tibetan community in Dharamshala.

The newly formed Taiwanese parliamentary group for Tibet has more than 30 members from various Taiwanese political parties including the New Power Party, Kuomintang party, Democratic Progressive Party.

Lim who serves as Tibet Support group president also said that more than 30 legislators had agreed to affiliate themselves with the group.

He said that this parliamentary group is a bipartisan group of parliamentarians from across the Taiwanese political spectrum who will collaborate and consolidate efforts to highlight the issue of Tibet in Taiwan as well as on the international stage.

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Dharamshala — “We are a people who have a great interest in compassion and love. The social environment of Tibetan society provides the conditions for their growth,” the 17th Karmapa Ugen Thinley Dorjee told hundreds of Tibetan students during a special event “Tibet Our Country.”

The Gyalwang Karmapa was invited to be the chief guest ta the Suja School’s celebration of this special day known as Tibet Our Country. The students performed traditional music and dance and presented their poetry on the topic of love and compassion, which was the focus of the day.

Begun in the 1990s, it is a major event for the Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV) schools, which honors and supports the preservation of Tibet’s rich and unique culture with a variety of programs and activities that culminate on this day.

By Indrani Bose: October 11, 2016

Dharamshala — Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay and Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel have congratulated Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos on receiving the 2016 Nobel Prize for Peace “for his resolute efforts to bring the country’s more than 50-year-long civil war to an end.”

“I heartily congratulate you for being awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace. This award is a homage to your wholehearted investment to bring peace to your country despite the setbacks along the way,” Tibetan prime minister Dr Lobsang Sangay says in a message of congratulations to Colombian President Santos for his efforts to help end the long-running conflict in his country.

In a world beset with tragedies and conflicts caused as a result of violent ideologies, your unwavering commitment to peace and dialogue is truly inspirational and motivating.”

“As the political leader of a country occupied by China, I feel your chosen path to combat conflicts through an untiring willingness for dialogue is not only important and significant, but also paves an example for others like us to follow.”

“As His Holiness the Dalai Lama says, the 21st century should be a century of dialogue. Dialogue allows people to span their differences and forge shared frames of reference. I feel it gives those formerly excluded from decision-making an opportunity to participate in the process of finding common ground and establishing priorities for action, which is why it is extremely crucial today than ever before.”

“I wish you all the success and hope that the spirit of dialogue which this award represents, herald a new day of peace and reconciliation in your country.”

Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile’s speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphei also praised the Columbian President as well efforts to achieve peace for his country and the region. “The Tibetan Parliamentin-Exile, on behalf of Tibetans inside and outside Tibet, wholeheartedly congratulate you on being awarded the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize. The award

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recognizes and acknowledges your untiring efforts towards establishment of a peace process to the long standing struggle of Colombia,” he said.

Additionally the Speaker said that, “This award is also a tribute to the people of Colombia, the victims of the Colombian civil war and to all the parties who have contributed to the peace process despite the hardships and adversity they faced and still continue to struggle for peace.”

“This award shows that dialogue remains the only way to resolve any disputes or differences in this world. It stands up for the peace strugglers and confirms that peace is the only weapon through which every conflicts can be resolved.”

“We are with your struggle and we pray for you and your people’s ongoing struggle for the peaceful reconciliation process in Colombia,” the Tibetan parliament Speaker added.

Many other world leaders queued up to congratulate President Santos, on the historic peace deal reached with the FARC. ‘I would like to congratulate this year’s Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Colombia’s President Juan Manuel Santos,’ said Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg.

“I congratulate President Santos for the Nobel. I hope it leads to a change in the accords that are damaging for our democracy,” said Santos’ arch rival and predecessor, Colombian conservative hardliner Alvaro Uribe.

“We obviously all hope, having been there during the process and invested in it, that this can still work out and get over the hurdles that remain,” said U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry.

“This is an extraordinary stage for Colombia in its intense search for peace. Santos now has a lot to do to take Colombians down the path of peace,” said Guatemalan indigenous rights activist Rigoberta Menchu, who won the Nobel in 1992.

“This award says to them: you have come too far to turn back now. The peace process should inspire our world,” said U.N. Secretary-General Ban Kimoon, on what this year’s Nobel Peace Prize means for Colombians.

“I wish you and the Colombian people great strength, stamina and success in the future in taking the next steps on the way to lasting peace,” said German Chancellor Angela Merkel, in a congratulatory note to Santos.

“We hope today’s announcement will embolden the parties to continue efforts to reach a definitive peace agreement that ensures the right of victims to truth, justice and reparation and brings an end to the human rights violations that have marked the armed conflict,” said Salil Shetty, Amnesty International’s Secretary General.

“What pride for our region! Keep working to ensure that peace becomes a reality,” said Argentine Foreign Minister Susana Malcorra.

“The award is a matter of pride not only for Colombians, but for the entire region,” said Brazilian President Michel Temer.

“We hope to help consolidate peace in Colombia,” said Argentine rights defender Adolfo Perez Esquivel, 1980 Nobel Peace laureate.

US President Barack Obama says the Nobel committee “made the right decision” by awarding its peace prize to Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos for his efforts to end a civil war that killed more than 200,000 Colombians.

The Norwegian Nobel Committee said it believes Mr Santos, despite the No vote, “has brought the bloody conflict significantly closer to a peaceful solution”.

The 65-year-old Colombian president was recognized for tireless efforts to end the chronic violence that has gripped his South American country for decades. The deal he helped negotiate would have given the rebel forces substantial inducements to join the political process.

In an interview for the Nobel Committee website, Santos stated “It’s simply a matter of believing in a cause and there is no better cause for any society, for any country, than living in Peace.”

A record 376 candidates were nominated for this year’s award, which carries a prize of 8 million Swedish kronor (£745,000). Last year’s peace prize went to Tunisia’s National Dialogue Quartet for its efforts to build a pluralistic democracy.

the new Indian generation on the nature and course of the Tibetan movement through essay and drawing competition.

The chief guest of the program was Ms Tenzin Dhardon Sharling, who was recently appointed to Secretaryequivalent post in the Information office of Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR), CTA, accorind to the Tibetan administration report.

Also present at the event was Ms Chemi Tseyang, Additional Secretary of DIIR, Ms Sonam Sangmo, Tibet Support Group Coordinator, Mr Dawa Rinchen, Dharamshala Tibetan Settlement Officer, representatives of various Tibetan organizations, students and staff of various schools in Dharamshala.

Opening the event, Ms Tenzin Dhardon said, “the Tibetan struggle thrives and survives and gains momentum on the Indian soil. Today we are seeing children from different schools in Dharamshala thinking, writing and painting about Tibet. The young future seeds of India talked about Tibet which, I think, is the essence of grassroots action that we are trying to mobilize so that this will generate later into public

mobilization and policy formation.”

“The spiritual affinity, historical connection, cultural and religious ties that both countries shared for centuries sends out a strong message to the rest of world that when another friend is in trouble, it’s a true friend who will stand by you. India has done that in an incredibly powerful and encouraging manner,” she said, expressing deep gratitude to the People and Government of India.

She thanked all the students and the members of Himalaya Parivar for raising awareness on Tibet in the Himalayan regions and urged the organizers to expand such programs to colleges, universities and larger institutions in the future.

Himalaya Parivar is a national organization dedicated to promoting welfare of the Himalayan people and protecting the environment, culture and religious traditions of the people. Since 1998, the organization have been actively engaged in mobilizing awareness and support for Tibet and its cultural, religious and historical ties with India through various grassroots initiatives.

Raising Tibet awareness through essay and drawing competition

By Molly Lortie: October 10, 2016

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 Jane Cook UK Yeshe Choesang India Keary Huang Taiwan Dawa Phurbu India Molly Lortie USA Tenzin Yeshe USA Indrani Bose India Artemas Liu Taiwan Yangchen Dolma India

compassion and love, but they remain a mere habit or a custom, passed down through the generations without particular attention being paid to them. It is possible that we could often recite the mantra, but there is not much stable power to our practice. Why is this so? If practice is just following some custom, a philosophical position, or an ingrained habit, it will not truly benefit us in our daily lives.

Looking within, we can search for a mental feeling, or an experience, of compassion and love. If see that they are growing, then our practice is effective. If we are inspired to develop them, it will definitely be possible, and then through love and compassion, we can benefit both others and ourselves. The Karmapa counseled that we should turn our attention to developing our meditation and continue our practice throughout our entire life.

In the world these days, he remarked, compassion and loving-kindness, are in decline, so the time has come for us to be concerned and take responsibility to do all we can to help. This era in which we live is filled with immense changes so we cannot sit just on the sidelines and relax.

We must become involved while focusing our minds clearly and thinking deeply.

The Karmapa concluded his talk with praise for the principal, staff, and teachers of Suja School.

He complemented them for shouldering their responsibilities and working together well and encouraged them to continue: “We can collaborate, mutually benefitting each other, and also put our energy together to help the entire society.” On this positive note, the Karmapa concluded his talk.

Tibetan leaders congratulate Colombian president Santos on peace prize

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

Contributors to this editon

From the center of the stage, His Holiness spoke to those who had gathered, recalling that he had visited the school many times and that they had a deep relationship. Turning to the theme for the day, the Karmapa noted that scientists state compassion is a quality that all living beings have from birth but, he noted, we must open the door to it. If we do not use and develop this capacity, its power will deteriorate.

The Karmapa drew an analogy to the development of language. We are all born with the potential to speak, but if a young child grows up in a remote area without human contact, this capacity will no be activated and the child will not be able to talk with others. Likewise, if our innate capacity for love and compassion is not nurtured in the right environment, it will not develop. The Karmapa recommended that in addition to being loving themselves, parents should use the words “compassion” and “love” often in the presence of a child and that these reminders would benefit them.

In Tibetan society, the Karmapa noted, “We pay attention to compassion and love. Parents and grandparents recite prayers that include all living beings, vast as the sky, and make wishes that they have happiness and be free of suffering.” Likewise, Tibetans recite the six-syllable mantra of Avalokiteshvara, who embodies compassion.

“In brief,” he said, “we are a people who have a great interest in compassion and love. The social environment of Tibetan society provides the conditions for their growth.”

But sometimes, he noted, we can talk a lot about

The essay, speech and drawing competition on Tibet, held at Zilla Parishad hall, Dharamshala, 7 October 2016. Photo: CTA/DIIR

Dharamshala — Over eighty students from six senior secondary schools in Dharamshala participated in a ‘Tibet Awareness Program,’ organized by the Himalaya Parivar, on Friday, October 7th.

The day-long program focused on boosting awareness on the multifaceted aspects of Indo-Tibet relations, the situation inside Tibet, including the ongoing environmental destruction and its consequences to India and rest of world; most importantly to educate

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Tibetan Parliament members discuss 16th session with TPI

By Indrani Bose: October 04, 2016

Dharamsala – As the second session of the 16th Tibetan Parliament in Exile was nearing the end, one of the 44 members, Lobsang Dakpa (Do-Toe), newly elected this year gave an exclusive interview the Tibet Post International.

“Every year we have two sessions, so this session is the second session of the 16th Parliament and in this session we are discussing about the report of different department. Different ministers from different departments, they will submit their report, what they have done, on that the Parliament will take opportunities to put questions to the ministers, if they have some doubts then they need to clarify the doubts.

“The Parliament hearing can also give suggestions to different departments for the better functioning of the department. On the first day, the discussion revolved around the current dialogue with China and the Prime Minister Lobsang Sangay has explained about the situation now and what is happening now.

He has given a very detailed explanation.”

According to Lobsang Dakpa, the policy and the demand of the Tibetan administration and also more than 65% of the Tibetan people are demanding for His Holiness The Dalai Lama’s middle way approach. He also claimed that, “We are not seeking independence on the administration level but individually they could have different thoughts, different opinions, some of them just say we need to have independence and some of they say we need to achieve this middle way approach but the official demand is not independent but the middle way approach. We are willing to stay in Chinese government but we need to have our own authority to preserve our culture, religion, language and all those things. “ Another member Sonam Norbu Dratsa said that, “The major activity was to select one Cabinet minister, it happened on 24th. The person who was to be selected couldn’t go up due to the majority vote against her was 27 and for her there were only 14 votes, and two were dismissed votes. After

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this, we generally discussed the annual report of each department. The first one was Religion and Culture and then was Home and then we came to the Finance ministry and then the Education and the Security – the defense we are yet to cover and then we have health.”

When asked about the discussion revolving around the middle way approach, he said that there was not much discussion about it since the session is live streaming, and so the Chinese officials might be listening in and it would be unwise to discuss so many details because of that. He mentioned that, “The Prime Minister said that they could not discuss it in details since it may harm his future planning and they have the plans and projects on table and ready and so once the other party give any signal or show interest, then we are very much ready from our side.”

Yangchen Dolkar, another Parliament member affirmed and said that there was some dialogue with Chinese and that the administration is ready to take the move when the other party shows interest. When TPI asked Sonam Norbu Dratsa about amendments and if any bill has been passed or not, he said there would be a vote and if there is more common support, in the sense they will raise their hands either for the motion or against it.

Pema Delek from Do-Toe said, ”We are going to amend some rules to appoint the staff of the CTA. It was unanimously passed the resolution in the previous session of the parliament and there was no special discussion about this during this session.

There was no special discussion about middle way.

The Prime minister explained the international support for the Tibet issue but in China there is not much change.” The amendment procedure is not complete; we are just discussing to appoint a special staff because if we want to appoint some very special person for the post, so there is no clear rule in the charter. So, this is to give some special power to the kasha.”

The second session of the 16th TPiE concluded on 29th September, 2016.

If you are interested in helping to promote freedom of press among the Tibetan community or just want to help distribute our paper, please contact us on the following addresses: Tibet Post International, Room No. 1, Top Floor, New Varuni House, Temple Road, Mcleod Ganj, Dharamshala, Distt. Kangra, H.P Pincode: 176219 INDIA E-mail: news@thetibetpost.com Mobile: +91-9882423566 Website: www.thetibetpost.com

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Karmapa presides Body Mind and Life Conference in Dharamshala

By Jane Cook: October 13, 2016

Dharamshala — The 17th Karmapa Ugen Thinley Dorjee presided over the opening function of the 4th ‘Body, Mind, and Life Conference held in northern India town of Dharamshala.

The special conference was organized by the Dharamshala based Tibetan Medical and Astrological Institute (Mentsekhang) on October 12, 2016.

During the three day conference, socholars have discussed the causes and conditions of depression from the standpoints of Buddhist psychology, Tibetan medicine, Tibetan astrology, and modern science.

The conference was attended by nearly three hundred people including science students from TCV Selakui and students of the Tibetan Medical and Astrological College.

The 17th Karmapa attending the event, in Dharamshala, India where Health Minister Choekyong Wangchuk addressing the occasion.

Photo: VOA/Tenzin Sangmo

Dharamshala girl Sethi wins Miss Himalaya Pageant 2016 crown

By Yeshe Choesang: October 10 , 2016

Dharamshala — A business management student, Ayushi Sethi from Dharamshala, won the crown of the Miss Himalaya Pageant 2016 in a modest show in McLeod Ganj late on Sunday night, October 9, 2016.

Holding her crown and in tears, Ayushi went to her parents for their blessings after the crowning. She beat Parul Patel, the only other contender in the pageant, in four competition rounds.

Ayushi won prize money of one lakh rupees (100,000), and Parul was awarded 50,000 rupees.

Tanshuman Gurung, the outgoing Miss Himalaya, passed the crown to her successor.

Monika Nataraj, a world-renowned women’s empowerment teacher from New York, and Oodhaye (Honey) Ramdhary, a barrister and a teacher of Kundalini Yoga from Mauritius, judged the four rounds.

Director Lobsang Wangyal said that Pageant is aimed to empower young Himalayan women, foster friendship among the Himalayan people, and speak about the problems around the Himalayan regions.

This, the fourth in series of the Pageant, saw only two women participating, both from Dharamshala.

“We expected more contestants from all over the Himalayan region this year. I feel that the young

The winner of Miss Himalaya Pageant 20016 Ayushi Sethi is flanked by First Runner-up Parul Patel and outgiong Miss Himalaya 2015 Tanshuman Gurung in McLeod Ganj, India, on 9 October 2016. Photo: Miss Himalaya Pageant

Himalayan women have to do a lot of catching up with the times,” Wangyal said.

He also urged the Tourism and Culture departments of the various states to provide assistance to initiatives that benefit the

Himalayan people.

Local artistes, including the Himalayan Band and the famous Lion Man, performed to the delight of the audience. Lion Man Tsering Dorje’s fire performance left the audience stunned.

The Tibet Post International

TPI NEWS

H IS H OLINESS T HE D ALAI L AMA

October 15, 2016

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Tibetan language too is un- His Holiness begins four day teaching der pressure: His Holiness

By Molly Lortie: October 4, 2016

His Holiness the Dalai Lama of Tibet during a spiritual event in Bylakuppe, South India, in December, 31, 2015. Photo: TPI/Yeshe Choesang

By Jane Cook: October 8, 2016

Riga, Latvia — Calling Tibet the Roof of the World, His Holiness the Dalai Lama Tuesday said that Tibetan language too is under pressure and its study is restricted. He also said that since the year of 1974, Tibetans have been trying to find a winwin solution for both them and China.

The Tibetan spiritual leader was greeted by around 75 Tibet supporters from the Baltic regions of Europe in Riga, Latvia, on October 11, 2016. The Latvian Buddhists came before all others and gave a favorable reception to His Holiness by offering him a thangka painting of 1000 armed Avalokiteshvara.

“Avalokiteshvara has a special connection with the Tibetan people. On one level I consider him to be my boss. Now and then I seek his advice,” he said while receiving the gift from the devotees.

The Estonians asked him to come to Estonia and give lessons on Buddhism. He received a gift from the Lithuanian Representative as well. The Tibetan leader stated that, “It’s a great honour to meet with friends from the three Baltic States again,” His Holiness told them, “you have a lot of experience of oppression as we do.

“Tibet is often called the Roof of the World and the environment and climate of the Tibetan Plateau have an influence on our neighbors. More than one billion people depend on rivers that rise in Tibet. Deforestation and now mining have caused damage. The altitude and the dry atmosphere mean that this will take longer to recover than in other places.

“The Tibetan language too is under pressure. In some schools its study is restricted. In others it’s not, but students of Tibetan earn lower marks than students of Chinese.

“Recently, the Chinese authorities decided to upgrade several towns to cities with the effect that even more Chinese come in. They tend to be uneducated and unskilled but they outnumber Tibetans and compete successfully against them for what employment there is. In towns the principal language is now Chinese and in Lhasa, Tibetans have even switched to eating rice instead of the tsampa they used to eat,” he stressed.

The Nobel Peace laureate further said that when he met with Buddhists from different countries, he came to an understanding about the significance of the Buddhist knowledge that the Tibetans have safeguarded through exhaustive study. According to him, if this awareness about Buddhism declined then it would be a considerable loss. He repeated that Tibetans are not on the lookout for independence. Nevertheless, they need to have the chance to conserve their learning, culture and language. He went on to say that since the year of 1974, Tibetans have been trying to find a win-win solution for both them and China.

The Buddhist leader started the session by repeating some words of Nagarjuna – considered as the second Buddha of this age and who at the beginning of his ‘Fundamental Wisdom’ pays his deepest respect to the Buddha for enlightening mankind on the fact that whatever emerges is devoid of the eight extremes like ceaseless and fatal, neither coming nor going, lacking both sameness and difference, and without any conceptual construction.

He questioned the audience about why human beings discuss about the intrinsic existence and answered by saying that it is due to mankind’s misunderstanding about the nature of existence which is one of the main reasons for suffering.

His Holiness explained in details about the five elements of a body and further remarked that if one

looks for the self between these five elements, one does not discover it. He claimed that, “”The Dalai Lama is not my body; he is not my mind, but nor is he separate from them. When we analyze in this way, we find nothing. We conclude that we exist by way of designation.”

He also talked about how a poor but loving family can be happy and this indicated that caring for others other than yourself gives birth to happiness. He discussed about Bodhichitta as well and offered the lay-person’s vows to people interested in it. Lastly, he passed on the mantras of the Buddha, Avalokiteshvara, Manjushri and Arya Tara.

After the lunch break, His Holiness welcomed questions from the gathering. When asked about bringing up children, he said that it is okay to be strict when a child disobeys you or if his/her behavior is harmful. Then, he voiced his opinion on this further by saying that being forbidding towards a child is not the correct approach.

He also answered another questioner’s query about the alliance between spiritual life and family life. He replied that Buddha never said that people who follow him should become a monk or a nun. The main essence of Buddhism is converting the mind for the better and it very much complements family life.

When he was asked by another man about taking up arms and keeping aside one’s Buddhist beliefs, the former responded by stating that in today’s world each person is dependent on the other and there is no point in killing one another. He also referred to the past century’s violence all over and asked the point of it all.

When one questioner wanted to know about the verse, “As long as any sentient being Anywhere has not been liberated, May I remain [in the world] for the sake of that being Though I have attained highest enlightenment.”, His Holiness said that it was about teaching the mind to be of service to others for a long and indefinite period of time.

His Holiness restarted the second chapter of Dharmakirti’s Commentary on Dignaga’s Compendium of Valid Cognition.” He focused on specific verses to talk about how Buddha is a dependable mentor. He also discussed the part of the Four Noble Truths in Buddha’s lessons and the realization that ignorance is nothing but distorted and a misunderstanding of reality.

As he came on to the end of the chapter, he once again told his audience that a Russian Indologist had made a favorable impression on him due to his hard work for attempting to bring attention to Dharmakirti’s contribution to Buddhist logic.

He finished his teaching by saying,”It’s been a great pleasure to have the opportunity to give this introduction, to conduct the ceremony for cultivating the aspiring awakening mind and to have had the opportunity to explain something. I hope I may have sparked some interest in you. I regard the works of the Nalanda masters as truly eye-opening.

“The Arhat Sagalha said we must make this life meaningful through study, reading books and cultivating the Three Training. I’m 81 years old, but whenever I can I read books. Sakya Pandita said, “Even if you are going to die tomorrow, it’s worth studying today.” If as a result you can deal with the problems you face and tackle your negative emotions, the purpose of the teaching has been served.”

The event came to an end with noted Russian singer Boris Grebenshchikov’s performance. While His Holiness was departing from the stage he received various calls of affection from the audience. He waved his hands and, “See you again.” He is scheduled to travel to Bern in Switzerland the next day.

Dharamshala — The early morning of Monday, October 3rd was lit with excitement as nearly 6000 people flowed into Tsulakhang, the main temple in Dharamshala waiting for His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, spiritual leader of Tibet, to begin his teaching.

The four day teaching, on Aryadeva’s Four Hundred Stanzas on the Middle Way, is being held at the request of a group of a thousand students from Taiwan, many of them students from the late Tenzin Jamchen.

Besides the Taiwanese, 1650 foreigners are attending the teaching in addition to local Tibetan and Indians.

Taking his seat on the throne inside the inner temple, His Holiness began, “Buddhism reached China before it was brought to Tibet, which makes the Chinese the senior students, while Tibetans and Mongolians are junior students. However, I think I can say that the junior students’ level of knowledge is not bad and we are all followers of the same Nalanda tradition. You students from Taiwan have been coming here to listen to teachings for many years and I’m happy to see you again.”

“The text we are going to look at comes from the Nalanda tradition. Aryadeva is the principal spiritual son of Nagarjuna. I received transmission and explanation of the text from Khunnu Lama Tenzin Gyaltsen from whom I received all 13 great classic Indian texts. I also received it from Khunnu Lama Rigzin Tenpa and from Serkhong Tsenshab Rinpoche. Khunnu Lama Tenzin Gyaltsen was a scholar of Sanskrit, which further enriched his explanation. Although I haven’t received a transmission of Chandrakirti’s commentary, that’s the one I’m relying on.”

Expressing admiration and support for the improved awareness among the Indian population, His Holiness said, “the study of Buddhist philosophy, particularly the Nalanda tradition are Indian ancestral tradition.

Buddha himself was an Indian. The great Nalanda

Over 5000 gather at the Main Temple for His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s teaching. Photo: TPI/Dawa Phurbu

tradition was first spread in India. Therefore it is in the primary interest of Indians to preserve their heritage, religion and culture.”

His Holiness observed that in ancient Indian traditions negative emotions were regarded as faulty, but they are not eliminated simply by reciting mantras. Since they are rooted in ignorance, we have to overcome ignorance. This is the intention of the Perfection of Wisdom sutras---the 25 line version of which is popularly known as the Heart Sutra.

Regarding the rise of conficts and humanitarian crises around the world, His Holiness observed, “If world situation continues to remain same, it is going to be unfortunate. Around 200 million people have been killed in all kinds of war and many are starving right this moment. These disturbances are caused by men and therefore mankind should find a solution to these problems. Prayers are not the antidote to the man-made problems.”

In order to combat these problems, His Holiness

asserted that we need to exploit our inner love and compassion, despite religious or other differences.

“Whether you are a believer or non-believer, follower of theistic religion or non-theistic, If we all think for the better of seven billion human being, we as individuals would automatically benefit.”

After a question and answer session where he fielded questions from several of the Taiwanese students, His Holiness briefly introduced Aryadeva’s Four Hundred Stanzas, reading the first verse, which focuses mainly on impermanence. Reflecting on how all the world around is grossly impermanent, he maintained that understanding this impermanence can help to combat ignorance.

Closing for the day, His Holiness joked with the Taiwanese students as he said ‘let’s eat lunch’ in Chinese, which was met with great laughter.

He will start the bulk of the teaching on the Four Hundred Stanzas from Tuesday morning, and the teaching will last a total of four days.

His Holiness congratulates Santos on Nobel Prize

Colombia’s President Juan Manuel Santos, right, arrives with his wife Maria Clemencia Rodirguez for a press conference at the presidential palace in Bogota, Colombia, Friday, Oct. 7, 2016. (AP Photo/Fernando Vergara)

By Yeshe Choesang: October 08, 2016

Dharamshala — His Holiness the Dalai Lama of Tibet congratulates Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos on receiving the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize. The Nobel Committee awarded Santos “for his resolute efforts to bring the country’s more than 50-year-long civil war to an end.”

Soon after the announcement that the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize had been awarded to Juan Manuel Santos, the President of Colombia,

His Holiness the Dalai Lama praised President Santos for his unwavering efforts to bring an end to 52 years of civil war in his country.

In his congratulatory letter , the spiritual leader of Tibet said: “This award is a tribute to your tireless efforts to promote peace in Colombia, regardless of how difficult the prospects may have seemed when you began.”

“I am deeply encouraged by the steadfast determination with which you have continued to work for reconciliation and peace despite the

setbacks that have arisen on the way. Clearly what is important is to continue to strive for the goal until we succeed,” His Holiness said.

“I remain confident that before long the spirit of dialogue, mutual understanding and respect you have fostered will bear fruit and usher in a new era of peace and prosperity for Colombia,” said the 1989 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate.

In a press conference held at the presidential palace in Bogota, Colombia, Santos said he dedicated the prize to the people of Colombia, particularly those who “have suffered in this war that we are on the verge of ending.”

The 65-year-old Colombian president was recognized for tireless efforts to end the chronic violence that has gripped his South American country for decades. The deal he helped negotiate would have given the rebel forces substantial inducements to join the political process.

Those willing to hand over their weapons and admit to war crimes would not have received prison sentences, and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia would have been granted 10 seats in congress for the next decade to give the group known as FARC a foothold in national politics.

In an interview for the Nobel Committee website, Santos stated “It’s simply a matter of believing in a cause and there is no better cause for any society, for any country, than living in Peace.”

Tibetans protest Xi Jinping’s visit at BRICS

By Yeshe Choesang: October 15, 2016

Goa Oct 15: Around a hundred Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC), activist gathered at Margao Circle one of the busiest intersections in Goa’s second largest city and route of international leaders attending the Brics summit shouting slogans of ‘Free Tibet’ and ‘Stop the demolition of Larung Gar’.

TYC the largest Tibetan NGO in exile has expressed serious concern on the current critical situation in Tibet and demands that Chinese President Xi Jinping who is currently in Goa attending the Brics summit to end the illegal occupation of Tibet. Over 1.2 million Tibetans have died as a result of this invasion since 1949.

“Today we are here to demand Xi Jinping to end the illegal occupation of Tibet and we also want to highlight the current demolition of Larung Gar Buddhist Academy where thousands of Tibetan monks and nuns are being displaced against their will. The world needs to hear this”, said Tenzing

Jigme President of Tibetan Youth Congress.

The Buddhist Academy is probably the world’s largest Buddhist monastic community. The academy, as framed by the late Khenpo, has been serving as the wellspring of knowledge. However, the Chinese government has issued an order to reduce the population of the institute to 5,000 residents when there are well over 10,000 monks and nuns alone.

Over a 140 Tibetans have self-immolated inside Tibet since 2009 protesting China’s illegal occupation and their hardline policies. Protests are taking place randomly across the plateau, demanding the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, freedom for Tibet and Independence for Tibet. It is clear that the Tibetans in Tibet are not satisfied with the rule of the current communist government. Tibet today faces a life-and-death situation. Tibet continues to burn.

“As Tibetans living in exile we have a duty and responsibility to stand up for our brothers and sisters

inside Tibet. The oppressed will always protest the oppressor until justice is served – we will not remain silent”, said TYC President Tenzing Jigme.

All the protestors have been detained by Goa Police. Tibetan Youth Congress organizers of this protest are the largest Tibetan NGO based in Dharamshala, working for the freedom and independence of the Tibetan people.

Tibetan Youth Congress’ activists protest Xi Jinping’s visit at BRICS, in Goa, India, on October 15, 2016. Photo: TPI

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October 15, 2016

TPI NEWS

Back Page Focus

US supports dialogue without preconditions: Tibet Negotiations report

By Yeshe Choesang: October 12, 2016

Washington, DC — China possesses “unreasonable and unattainable conditions in order for China to resume dialogue,” a new US report on ‘Tibet Negotiations’ said, adding that the United States supports “dialogue without preconditions”— considering “this position counterproductive and contrary to the expectations of the United States and the international community.”

The “Tibet Negotiations” report, which is mandated by the “Tibet Policy Act of 2002”, was transmitted from Secretary of State John Kerry to the Congress. It maintained that the role of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and his representatives is pivotal in dealing with the continuing tensions in Tibet and advised that failure to address these problems will be an impediment to China’s social and economic development, as well as continue to be a stumbling block to fuller political and economic engagement with US. “The Dalai Lama’s representatives and Chinese officials from the United Front Work Department have not met directly since the ninth round of dialogue in January 2010,” the report stated, adding: “The United States continues to encourage both sides to engage in a substantive discussion that will work to achieve concrete results,” says the 14th annual report to Congress on the status of Tibet negotiations, by US Assistant Secretary of State for Legislative Affairs Julia Frifield, on behalf of the Secretary.

“The U.S. government believes that the Dalai Lama or his representatives can be constructive partners for China as it deals with continuing tensions in Tibetan areas.

The Dalai Lama’s views continue to be widely reflected within Tibetan society and he represents the views of the vast majority of Tibetans. His consistent advocacy of non-violence is a key in reaching a lasting solution for Tibetans,” the report’s executive summary stated.

“Chinese government engagement with the Dalai Lama or his representatives to resolve problems facing Tibetans is in the interest of the Chinese government and the Tibetan people. Failure to address these problems will lead to greater tensions inside China and will be an impediment to China’s social and economic development, as well as continue to be a stumbling block to fuller political and economic engagement with the United States,” it said.

“Promoting substantive dialogue between Beijing and the Dalai Lama or his representatives is a long-standing important U.S. foreign policy objective. We continue to encourage representatives of both the Chinese government and the Dalai Lama to hold direct and substantive discussions, without preconditions, toward a solution that allows Tibetans to enjoy genuine autonomy, including in the practice of religion, culture, and language, and thus promotes stability,” the report noted.

The report further states that “Such a dialogue provides the best hope for alleviating tensions in Tibetan areas and would contribute to the overall stability of China. We are very concerned that there has been no dialogue since early 2010, and that talks prior to that time did not bear concrete results. The United States believes that a resumption of dialogue and steps to redress Tibetan grievances are critical to reducing the continuing high tensions between Tibetans and Chinese authorities,” says the report.

“We are concerned Chinese officials continue to insist on unreasonable and unattainable conditions in order for China to resume dialogue. We consider this position counterproductive and contrary to the expectations of the United States and the international community,” says the report, adding that “We support dialogue without preconditions.”

The report also claimed that “The United States recognizes the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) and Tibetan autonomous prefectures and counties in other

provinces as part of the People’s Republic of China.

Accordingly, the U.S. government does not conduct official diplomatic relations with the Central Tibetan Administration, an organization based in Dharamsala, India. The Department of State maintains contact with a wide range of religious, cultural, political, and other Tibet-related groups and individuals, including Tibetans in the United States, China, India, and around the world.”

“U.S. officials have met with the Dalai Lama in his capacity as an internationally revered religious and cultural leader, and as a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate.

The Dalai Lama repeatedly has disclaimed any intention to seek sovereignty or independence for Tibet, and has instead said that he seeks for China to preserve Tibetan culture, religion, and its fragile environment through genuine autonomy,” the report further added.

“We continue to urge China to address policies in Tibetan areas that have created tensions; respect and preserve the distinct religious, linguistic, and cultural identity of the Tibetan people; permit Tibetans to express their grievances freely, publicly, peacefully, and without fear of retribution; allow journalists, diplomats, and other observers unrestricted access to Tibetan areas; and fully respect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all Chinese citizens, including the freedom of movement domestically and internationally. ‘We welcome the reduction in the number of tragic acts of protest by selfimmolation during the reporting period and hope the trend will continue,” it said.

Regarding decisions on the succession or reincarnation of the next Dalai Lama, the report said: “we believe that the basic and universally recognized right of religious freedom demands that any such decision must be reserved to the current Dalai Lama, Tibetan Buddhist leaders, and the Tibetan people.”

‘We are concerned that the death of the Dalai Lama in exile without a resolution of differences likely would increase instability in China, and we encourage China to adopt policies that would reduce the risk of unrest and resume dialogue with the current Dalai Lama while he remains healthy,” it further added.

The report also details the steps taken by the President Obama administration to encourage “substantive dialogue between the Dalai Lama’s representatives and the Chinese government to resolve long-standing issues, and stresses that a dialogue that produces results would be positive for China and Tibetans.” The following are some steps taken by the United States Government: President Obama continues to call for substantive dialogue between the Dalai Lama’s representatives and the Chinese government to resolve long-standing issues,

and stresses that a dialogue that produces results would be positive for China and Tibetans; The President expressed support for the “preservation of Tibet’s unique religious, cultural, and linguistic traditions and the equal protection of human rights of Tibetans in China” and the “Middle Way” approach, commended the Dalai Lama’s commitment to nonviolence and dialogue, and called for “meaningful and direct dialogue between the Dalai Lama and his representatives with Chinese authorities.”

In a joint press conference with President Xi Jinping in Beijing on September 25, 2015,the President said, “we continue to encourage Chinese authorities to preserve the religious and cultural identity of the Tibetan people, and to engage with the Dalai Lana or his representatives;” Secretary Kerry consistently raised Tibet in meetings with his Chinese counterparts, including during visits to China and in meetings with Chinese counterparts in the United States and elsewhere during the reporting period, and in public speeches. He consistently called for the protection of human rights in Tibetan areas and for a resumption of dialogue. On April 26,2016, at a speech at Rice University, the Secretary noted that, “[i]n China, Tibetan Buddhists continue to suffer from official harassment and interference in the practice of their religion.”

Under Secretary Sewall meeting with the Dalai Lama twice during the reporting period, on January 16, 2016, in Dharamsala, India and on June 13, 2016, in Washington, to discuss nonviolent approaches to conflict resolution, climate change, and questions of preserving Tibetan culture, religion, and education; The US delegation at the 19th U.S.-China Human Rights Dialogue on August 13, 2015 urging China to renew dialogue with the Dalai Lama or his representatives and provide greater access to Tibetan areas by diplomats and journalists.

Assistant Secretary of State for Human Rights Democracy and Labor Tom Malinowski urging China during an October 14 meeting in Beijing with the State Administration for Religious Affairs in Beijing for an end to state interference in the religious process of identifying reincarnate Tibetan lamas; At the April 2016 U.S.-China Consular Dialogue, the United States proposed the establishment of a mechanism for consular officers and staff to be able to travel to the TAR on short notice to assist distressed U.S. citizens with minimal delay.

The report also says details on human rights and religious freedom conditions in, and the level of journalist and diplomatic access to, Tibet can be found in the Department’s annual Human Rights and International Religious Freedom Reports.

and hope that you will carry forward your reputation as a spokesperson of the oppressed and downtrodden. In this regard, I trust you will raise your voice on the issue of Tibet and steer the United Nations towards a peaceful resolution of Tibet issue,” Sikyong wrote.

Mr Guterres, 67, was a former head of UNHCR. He was elected to the UN top job following a straw poll held on 5 October in the UN Security Council.

Guterres, who served Portugal as prime minister from 1995 to 2002, is also know as a ‘tireless champion’ of migrants: A fervent Catholic, he is known to have fought unflaggingly for migrants’ rights over a decade as UN High Commissioner for Refugees from June 2005 to December 2015.

He had repeatedly warned that millions of refugees fleeing Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere would turn to Europe if nations like Turkey and Jordan did not receive more help to cope with their refugee populations. Wealthy countries had to take in more, he exhorted.

Guterres, has emerged from six rounds of secret voting and is expected to win in the final formal vote set to take place on Thursday morning by

acclamation. UN’s current Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s term expires on Dec. 31 this year. Mr Ban has served two terms as UN Secretary General following his election in 2007.

The United Nations has passed three resolutions on Tibet in 1959, 1961 and 1965, voicing “grave concern at the continued violation of the fundamental rights and freedoms of Tibetans” and calling for “respect of the fundamental human rights of the Tibetan people and for their distinctive cultural and religious life.”

On October 6, 2016, the UN Security Council approved the resolution with recommendation for the UN General Assembly to appoint candidate from Portugal Antonio Guterres to the post of UN Secretary General.

Tibet was invaded by Communist China, starting in 1949, Beijing calls a “peaceful liberation”. Since that time, over 1.2 million out of 6 Tibetans have been killed, over 6000 monasteries have been destroyed— the acts of murder, rape and arbitrary imprisonment, torture and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment were inflicted on the Tibetans inside Tibet. There are now more than 150,000 Tibetan refugees all over the world.

Sikyong congratulates Portugal’s Guterres, next UN Secretary-General

By Yangchen Dolma: October 08, 2016

Dharamshala — The political leader of Tibetan people, Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay Friday congratulated former Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Guterres, who has been unanimously selected in a straw poll by the UN Security Council as the next UN Secretary-General.

In his letter, Sikyong said: “ I, on behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration, heartily congratulate you for being elected as the next UN Secretary-General.”

“The UN is the leader of universal peace and the promotion of international cooperation for a better future. Being elected as its Secretary-General is a huge responsibility, especially in the face of the crisis that is currently prevalent in the world.”

“As the former head of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), we admired your persistent appeal to the international community to uplift the prospects of the downtrodden. Your leadership, particularly over the refugee crisis as a fallout of the conflict in Syria, has touched the conscience of the entire humanity.”

“I wish you all the best in your new responsibility

US Congressional Report on China notes human rights disparity in Tibet

By Molly Lortie: October 07, 2016

President Barack Obama greets His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the entrance of the Map Room of the White House, June 15, 2016. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

The Tibet Post International

Washington, D.C. -- The United States’ CongressionalExecutive Commission on China released its 15th annual report on October 6th. As part of the Commission’s report, a portion focuses specifically on Tibet, monitoring human rights and other issues.

Beginning with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Commission notes that dialogue between His Holiness and the Chinese Communist Party has ceased to continue since 2010.

“The Party and government continued this past year to attempt to remove the Dalai Lama from Tibetans’ lives by means including denying his status as a religious leader, cracking down on Party members, preventing or punishing display of his image, and hindering Tibetan travel to India.”

“Additional reports this past year demonstrated Party and government disregard of Tibetans’ right to religious freedom...” the report continued with examples such as, “County People’s Government, in Naqu (Nagchu) prefecture, TAR, issued a ‘’notice’’ directing ‘’purge and reform’’of monastic leadership and religious and financial affairs, and specifying punishment for non-compliance.

Days later, authorities expelled at least 100 nuns and demolished residences at a local nunnery.

In July 2016, demolition commenced at the renowned Larung Gar Buddhist Institute, in Seda (Serthar) county, Ganzi TAP, Sichuan province, to reduce Tibetan Buddhist lay and monastic practitioners living there from ‘’more than 20,000’’ to 5,000 by September 2017.”

Regarding cultural and personal freedoms, the Commission noted a particular effort cracking down on Tibetan language. “Reports emerged showing that officials at times treated Tibetan efforts to sustain their culture and language as illegal or as a threat to social stability, leaving Tibetans with uncertain recourse.

In a Foreign Policy article, a Columbia University professor observed: ‘Although China’s constitution and ethnic autonomy laws create the appearance of progress, there are no mechanisms for enforcing the vision of equality put forward by those texts. Put simply, there is no Chinese Department of Justice or Chinese Supreme Court to which Tibetans can appeal to fight discriminatory practices.’

“Officials deny Tibetans adequate rights to protect their culture, language, religion, and environment, and prosecute as criminals Tibetans who question or protest against official policies.”

The Commission observed that there was no evidence

during its 2002 to 2016 period of reporting that the government solicited any representation of input from the Tibetan population on the economic development in the Tibetan autonomous areas of China.

Recent developments have included the building of railways, rapid urbanization and a shift in population, all of which affect Tibetans intimately, and yet had no input in.

Specifically regarding population shift, “Commission access this past year to Chinese 2010 ethnic census data showed a 50-percent increase in the Han population of Lhasa municipality from 2000 to 2010.”

Such a drastic increase has made Tibetans a minority in their own home and has created issues with housing and government land seizing.

Another issue includes mining, an effort that has polluted and destroyed regions of traditionally Tibetan pastoral land, despite protest from locals. Citing specific examples, “Security officials beat Tibetans in Amuqu (Amchog) township, Xiahe (Sangchu) county, Gannan (Kanlho) TAP, Gansu province, who protested against open-pit mining near another sacred mountain. The township government issued a document linking protesters to ‘’antiChina forces’’ and warned of ‘severe consequences.’”

Finally, regarding political prisoners and the imprisonment of Tibetans, the Commission noted that, “As of August 1, 2016, the Commission’s Political Prisoner Database (PPD) contained 1,894 records—a figure certain to be far from complete—of Tibetan political prisoners detained on or after March 10, 2008.”

Citing the UN Committee Against torture in its 2016 Periodic Report on China, “The Committee has received numerous reports from credible sources that document in detail cases of torture, deaths in custody, arbitrary detention and disappearances of Tibetans. . . . In view of this information, the Committee remains seriously concerned at the State party’s failure to provide information on 24 out of the 26 Tibetan cases mentioned in the list of issues.”

The Commission was formed 15 years ago as China joined the World Trade Organization (WTO), thus agreeing to certain international principles, as a way to monitor reform and development of the People’s Republic of China.

However, according to the report, “China has largely failed to implement the substantive legal reforms anticipated 15 years ago and has persisted in violating international human rights standards and its own domestic laws with lasting harm to both U.S. interests and the Chinese people.”