Dharamshala, 27th May: Penpa Tsering(53) was sworn in as Sikyong on Thursday, succeeding Lobsang Sangay. The ceremony held under the constraints imposed by the coronavirus pandemic, Chief Justice Commissioner Sonam Norbu Dagpo gave the oath to Penpa Tsering at the presence(virtually) of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. His Holiness greeted the new Sikyong of the Tibetan government-in-exile. During the 2021 CTA general election, he received 34,324 votes, 5,417 more than Kelsang Dorjee Aukatsang, who came in second place.
Penpa Tsering said he will reach out to the Chinese government to find a “mutually beneficial” and non-violent solution to the Sino-Tibet dispute. He stated that his government will follow the “middle path” advocated by Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama and following the Dalai Lama’s guidance is of “utmost importance” to all Tibetans. He stated that the main role of his ‘Kashag’ (Cabinet) will be to solve the severe difficulties confronting “endangered Tibet” and the Tibetan people’s sufferings.
“On that basis, we will approach the Chinese administration in order to establish a mutually beneficial, negotiated, non-violent solution to the Sino-Tibet conflict.” We hope that this would serve as a model for settling conflicts around the world,” Penpa Tsering added.
“We are really fortunate to have His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s virtual presence at the inaugural gathering this morning. The executive will make every effort to ensure that we follow and act in conformity with his holiness’s path,” Penpa Tsering stated.
Previously, Penpa Tsering spoke of “resolving” the Tibetan issue, taking care of “Tibetans in exile,” and pursuing “all conceivable avenues to communicate with China.” He has also stated his desire to “assist the Dalai Lama’s visit to China” and push for the release of “Panchen Lama Gedhun Choekyi Nyima and all other political detainees.”
“I express my best wishes to all my Tibetan brothers and sisters, both inside and beyond Tibet, as well as all supporters of freedom and truth in Tibet. I also want to thank US Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, the State Department, Taiwan’s foreign minister, parliamentary allies of Tibet, Tibet support groups, organizations, and individuals for their help,” Penpa Tsering stated following the oath-taking ceremony.
“To end, I would like to thank all freedom-loving governments, parliaments, and Tibet supporters throughout the world, particularly India and the United States, for their love and support for Tibet and the Tibetan people,” he said.
Picture Courtesy: tibettoday
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