The United States government has appointed a new officer to the long vacant post of Special Coordinator for Tibetan issues. According to a press release by the US State Department on Wednesday, a new special coordinator for Tibetan issues. The Special Coordinator seat had remained vacant under the Trump Administration since 2017.
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in his statement announced Assistant Secretary Robert A. Destro of the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor to serve as the United States Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues. He explained that the special officer will lead US efforts to promote dialogue between the People’s Republic of China and the Dalai Lama or his representatives.
“I am pleased to announce the concurrent designation of Assistant Secretary Robert A. Destro of the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor to serve as the United States Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues.” said Secretary Pompeo in the press release on October 14, 2020.
“Consistent with the Tibetan Policy Act, Special Coordinator Destro will lead U.S. efforts to promote dialogue between the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Dalai Lama or his representatives; protect the unique religious, cultural, and linguistic identity of Tibetans; and press for their human rights to be respected. He also will support U.S. efforts to address the humanitarian needs of Tibetan refugees and to promote sustainable economic development and environmental conservation in Tibetan communities on the plateau.” he added.
The statement also added that the United States remains concerned with the PRC’s repression of the Tibetan community, including the lack of meaningful autonomy, the deteriorating human rights situation in Tibetan areas, and severe restrictions on Tibetans’ religious freedom and cultural traditions within China.
According to Pompeo, Special Coordinator Destro will engage Tibetan leaders and international partners and experts to address these issues. He also will carry forward the Department’s engagement with and support for Tibet’s global diaspora and their many courageous advocates for the protection of human rights, including the freedom of religion or belief.