The first International Conference of Tibetan Performing Arts was held at TIPA (Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts) on October 28. It was timed to mark the occasion of TIPA’s 60th anniversary.
Speaking at the inauguration, Samuel D Brownback, the American Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, voiced the USA’s support for the cause of Tibet.
The Ambassador expressed America’s deep respect for the Tibetan language, religion and culture. He labelled Tibetan culture “a treasure of humanity” and highlighted a shared commitment for compassion, inclusiveness and rule of law.
Ambassador Brownback stated his government’s belief that freedom of religion must be protected. “Where injustice is allowed to exist unchecked, oppression inevitably spreads and new abuses are perpetrated,” he stated, urging the faith communities of Asia to heed this message. “If the practice of one faith community can be restricted, so can and will others,” he emphasised, adding that “history has shown that repression by governments cannot stifle the spiritual aspirations of people.”
Turning to India, Ambassador Brownback praised India’s support for the Tibetan cause as “a gift to the world.”
Ambassador Brownback then spoke of the situation in Tibet, emphasising the repression of Tibetans. “The United States is deeply concerned about the CCP’s escalating, widespread and undue restrictions on religious freedom. We call on the Chinese government to respect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all individuals everywhere all the time.”
Photo: OHHDL
Ambassador Brownback urged the Chinese government not to interfere in the process of selection of Tibetan religious leaders. He said, “The international community must work together now to make clear we stand unequivocally with the people of Tibet”, adding, “Decisions regarding the selection of Tibetan Buddhist leaders rest with the Dalai Lama, Tibetan Buddhist leaders and the people of Tibet. Period.”
Ambassador Brownback stated that the US government is committed to “establish conditions that will lead to direct and meaningful dialogue between PRC authorities and His Holiness the Dalai Lama without preconditions that leads to a sustainable settlement.”
Earlier, Sikyong Lobsang Sangay, President of the Tibetan Government-in-exile, spoke of the advice given to TIPA’s founders 60 years ago. His Holiness told them “Do not be discouraged”, adding that they would become famous throughout the world. Sikyong mused that this had indeed taken place.
Sikyong highlighted the fact that for four years in succession the Tibetan region has been ranked the second least free country in the world behind only Syria.
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