In a heartfelt display of support, Mounir Satouri, Chair of the Subcommittee on Human Rights of the European Parliament, has extended his solidarity to the Tibetan people in the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck Tibet on January 7, 2025. In a letter addressed to Representative Rigzin C. Genkhang of the Office of Tibet, Brussels, Satouri expressed his deepest condolences for the lives lost and the immense destruction caused by the natural disaster.
Satouri’s message underscores the European Parliament’s continued commitment to Tibet, emphasizing the resilience of the Tibetan people in the face of adversity. “The people of Tibet are called upon to rebuild their lives, their homes, and their communities. Tibetans will prevail over this tragedy through their resolve and the resilience that characterizes them as a people,” he wrote.
Call for International Aid Access
In his letter, Satouri called on the Chinese authorities to allow international humanitarian assistance to reach the affected areas in Tibet. He stressed that external support is crucial to alleviating the hardship faced by Tibetan communities.
“The European Parliament has consistently been vocal on Tibet,” he reaffirmed, referencing the December 2023 resolution that condemned China’s forced assimilation policies through boarding schools. He further highlighted that Tibet’s situation remains a priority for the European Parliament, with continued scrutiny on human rights abuses.
Acknowledgment from the Office of Tibet
Representative Rigzin Genkhang responded with gratitude, emphasizing the importance of international support during this crisis. “Your commitment to standing by us in this time of need is a source of immense strength, and we are profoundly touched by your concern for the welfare of our people. It is through such gestures that we will find the resilience to heal,” she stated.
Growing Global Support for Tibet
This latest expression of solidarity follows previous messages of support from global leaders and institutions. French President Emmanuel Macron, the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Commissioner Hadja Lahbib, members of the French Senate and European Parliament, as well as Buddhist organizations, have all extended their sympathies and called for greater international attention to Tibet’s plight.
The European Parliament’s firm stance on Tibet not only amplifies the urgent need for humanitarian relief but also reinforces global advocacy for Tibetan rights. With Tibet’s struggle for justice and survival remaining at the forefront, calls for greater international intervention and accountability continue to grow.
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