Central Tibetan Administration organized a prayer service to mourn and express solidarity with the two Tibetans who have self-immolated this month and those undergoing immense suffering under China’s rule in Tibet.
Phagmo Samdup, a 27-year-old Tibetan youth, died after setting himself on fire in protest against the Chinese government’s repressive policies on 5 February. On 13 February, Lobsang Dorjee, 25, burned himself to death in protest. These two incidents have pushed the total self-immolations to 126, out of which have 109 died. The self-immolators have called for the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Tibet and freedom for Tibetans.
In some significant developments on the issue of Tibet, US President Barack met the Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the White House and Dr. Sarah Sewall, the US Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, was appointed as the Special Coordinator for Tibetan issues.
“The President reiterated his strong support for the preservation of Tibet’s unique religious, cultural, and linguistic traditions and the protection of human rights for Tibetans in the People’s Republic of China,” the White House said in a press release.
“The President commended the Dalai Lama’s commitment to peace and nonviolence and expressed support for the Dalai Lama’s “Middle Way” approach. The President stressed that he encourages direct dialogue to resolve long-standing differences and that a dialogue that produces results would be positive for China and Tibetans. In this context, the President reiterated the U.S. position that Tibet is part of the People’s Republic of China and that the United States does not support Tibet independence.”
“The Dalai Lama stated that he is not seeking independence for Tibet and hopes that dialogue between his representatives and the Chinese government will resume,” it said.
The US government expressed its concern about the continuing tensions and the deteriorating human rights situation in Tibetan areas of China. “We are concerned about continuing tensions and the deteriorating human rights situation in Tibetan areas of China. We will continue to urge the Chinese government to resume dialogue with the Dalai Lama or his representatives, without preconditions, as a means to reduce tensions,” National Security Council spokesperson Caitlin Hayden said.
Honorable Sikyong Dr. Lobsang Sangay welcomed the meeting between His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and President Obama. “I welcome President Obama’s strong endorsement of the Middle Way Approach policy and constructive dialogue without any precondition. This meeting sends a powerful message of hope to Tibetans in Tibet who are undergoing immense suffering. The meeting reflects the American government and people’s continued commitment to freedom and democracy,” said the Sikyong