In his congratulatory letter to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, His Holiness the Dalai Lama made a heartfelt call for leadership that prioritizes peace, stability, and global cooperation during these challenging times. His Holiness expressed his admiration for the United States as a long-standing beacon of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law, and emphasized the world’s hopes for the U.S. to lead with these values in the face of global uncertainties.
“I have long admired the United States of America as the champion of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law,” wrote His Holiness. “The world places great hope in the democratic vision and leadership of the U.S.A. In these times of great uncertainty and upheaval in several parts of the world, it is my hope that you will provide leadership in bringing about peace and stability.”
The Dalai Lama’s message underlined the urgent need for leadership that can unite nations and peoples around shared goals of peace and justice. He appealed directly to President-elect Trump to embrace the responsibility of guiding the world toward harmony, emphasizing the critical role the U.S. can play in global affairs.
Further, His Holiness highlighted the enduring support the Tibetan people have received from the United States, a relationship that has been a cornerstone in the Tibetan struggle to preserve their ancient Buddhist culture. “The Tibetan people and I have been honoured to have received the support of respective U.S. Presidents and the American people, in our endeavour to protect and preserve our ancient Buddhist culture—a culture of peace, non-violence, and compassion that has the potential to benefit humanity as a whole,” His Holiness wrote.
In his conclusion, His Holiness extended his best wishes for President-elect Trump’s success in addressing the many challenges ahead, both in fulfilling the hopes of the American people and contributing to global peace. “I wish you every success in meeting the many challenges that lie ahead in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the American people and in contributing to peace in the world,” His Holiness concluded.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering, the political leader of the Central Tibetan Administration, also sent a message of congratulations to President-elect Trump, acknowledging the United States’ continued importance in global leadership. Sikyong commended America’s unwavering commitment to addressing global challenges and safeguarding peace, prosperity, and the rule of law.
“In these challenging times, America’s leadership continues to remain a vital force towards addressing the pressing global challenges and safeguarding the pillars of global stability—peace, prosperity, and the rule of law,” wrote Sikyong.
Sikyong also reflected on the decades-long, bipartisan support Tibet has received from the U.S. government. “For decades, the United States has stood as Tibet’s steadfast ally, with bipartisan support across the Congress and successive administrations demonstrating a robust and unwavering Tibet policy,” he stated. “We are grateful for the support and look forward to building on this longstanding effort with renewed hope and faith in your leadership.”
Both His Holiness and Sikyong’s messages reflect a deep and enduring relationship between Tibet and the United States, underlining a shared commitment to peace and stability in the world. They express hope that under President-elect Trump’s leadership, the U.S. will continue to be a force for good on the global stage.