Dharamshala: Earlier this morning at The Tibet Museum, Sikyong Penpa Tsering, along with Frances C. Cutler—the granddaughter of Sir Basil John Gould, who served as the British Political Officer in Sikkim from 1935 to 1945—attended the inauguration of the Museum’s temporary exhibition, “Frontier Diplomacy: Britain, Tibet and Sir Basil Gould.”

The exhibition, adapted from Sir Basil Gould’s book The Jewel in the Lotus: Recollections of an Indian Political Officer, explores the historical records of his mission to Tibet—from his appointment as successor to Rosy Weir, the British Trade Agent in Gyantse, to his attendance at the golden enthronement ceremony of the young 14th Dalai Lama. It also highlights his presentation to the Kashag of a translated account documenting the discovery and installation of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.

Among the exhibits are two rare historical documents that once belonged to Sir Basil Gould, generously donated to the Central Tibetan Administration by his family last year. These documents are prominently displayed alongside a set of traditional Tibetan attire worn by Tsepon Wangchuk Deden Shakabpa, the former Finance Minister of the government of independent Tibet. Together, these artefacts testify to Tibet’s de facto independence in both internal governance and external affairs during that period.

The inauguration was attended by Jonathan M. Cutler, spouse of Frances C. Cutler; Karma Choeying, Secretary of the Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR); Tsering Dhondup, Secretary of Finance; Namgyal Tsewang, DIIR Additional Secretary; Tenzin Topden, Director of The Tibet Museum; and researchers from the Tibet Policy Institute, among others. Also present were members of various Tibetan institutions who contributed to recreating Krishna Kanwal’s depiction of Tibet during that period, featured in a dedicated section of the exhibition. Krishna Kanwal, one of the early pioneers of modernism in Indian art, had accompanied Sir Basil Gould during the British mission to Tibet.

At the event, Sikyong Penpa Tsering formally inaugurated the exhibition by cutting a ceremonial ribbon, followed by a full tour of the displays.

After a brief tea reception, attendees gathered inside The Tibet Museum hall for an official briefing on the exhibition, MC-ed by staff Tenzin Dolma.

The Tibet Museum Director, Tenzin Topden, delivered the welcome address and provided a comprehensive introduction to the exhibition, explaining its inspiration, outlining its various sections, and detailing how the documents and other materials were obtained.

In his remarks, Secretary Karma Choeying emphasised the primary objectives of The Tibet Museum and its crucial role in educating global audiences about the Tibetan cause through initiatives such as temporary exhibitions, permanent exhibitions, travelling displays, and online exhibitions. He noted, “This particular exhibition bears historical significance as well as relevance to the current Tibetan struggle, as the challenges to Tibetan identity have intensified after decades of PRC occupation of Tibet.”

Secretary Karma Choeying further highlighted Tibet’s de jure and de facto independent status before 1951, noting the significance of Sir Basil Gould’s engagements with Tibet at that time. “The year 1947 stands at the threshold of immense global transformation. As empires receded and new nations emerged, Tibet was actively engaging with the international community to assert its identity. Sir Basil Gould, as the British Political Officer of Sikkim and a key interlocutor between Tibet and British India, occupied a unique place in this relationship.” He added, “The documents presented today illuminate these relationships with clarity and authenticity. The letter from Taktra Rinpoche reflects the official voice of the Tibetan government during the regency period, while the letter from His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama carries a different yet equally powerful significance. Together, these letters affirm a simple and profound truth.”

Frances C. Cutler expressed her pleasure at attending the event and receiving audience with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama a day earlier. By quoting first lines of the second chapter of The Jewel in the Lotus: Recollections of an Indian Political Officer, she said that “half a brick” that her grandfather had stumbled upon is the reason for both her grandfather’s long association with Tibet as well as the today’s gathering for this exhibition. She recalled how Sir Basil Gould accompanied His Holiness the 13th Dalai Lama partway back to Tibet from exile in India and was tasked with bringing four Tibetan boys, the “Four Rugby Boys,” to England as part of a modernisation effort. “It might well have been my father’s connection with the Rugby Boys that led our family to invite young Tibetan refugees to spend time in England. Thus, I grew up with several Tibetan brothers and sisters,” she said.

Cutler shared how her early interest in Tibet and Tibetan culture was sparked by her grandfather’s books, and how three generations of her family had audiences with His Holiness, describing it as “one life, three generations of my family.“ She recounted that it was only in 2024, after her mother’s passing, that she and her spouse discovered the documents and other items among her parents’ belongings, which they generously donated to The Tibet Museum.

Delivering the keynote address, Sikyong Penpa Tsering thanked Frances C. Cutler for her donation and elaborated on the historical engagements of the government of independent Tibet with Western nations. Sikyong emphasised the longstanding record of Westerners visiting Tibet, tracing back to the early 17th century, as evidence of Tibet’s historical status and to counter China’s distorted narratives about Tibet’s history prior to the PLA annexation.

Recalling his official visit to London the previous year, Sikyong said, “We prioritised the United Kingdom because our relationship with British India dates back to 1774.” He added that discussions with scholars in London aimed to produce a book on historical relations with Tibet to inform new generations of UK political leaders about Tibet’s historical connections with British India and the UK.

Sikyong also noted that similar important documents remain in private hands, often unaffordable to the Central Tibetan Administration, but they are equally valuable as evidence supporting Tibet’s historical claims. Speaking to younger Tibetans in the audience, Sikyong urged them to study historical accounts such as The Jewel in the Lotus: Recollections of an Indian Political Officer to better understand Tibet’s past and support future advocacy efforts.

With a vote of thanks from museum staff member Tenzin Khetsun, the ceremony concluded.

Dharamshala: Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra (Minister) of the Department of Education, Central Tibetan Administration, inaugurated the Tibetan Language Laboratory at Mewoen Tsuglag Petoen School on the morning of 1 April 2026.

Upon arrival, the Education Kalon was welcomed by Sambhota Director Tsering Dhondup Drongpa, Petoen School Principal Lekshay Nyima, and headmistress Tenzin Choedon.

Following the reception, Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra inaugurated both the Tibetan Language Laboratory and Math Lab, inspected the newly established facilities and the lab. The project was made possible through the generous support of former Tibetan Parliamentarian Pema Chagzoetsang, currently residing in the United States, who arranged funding of USD 10,000 (approximately INR 893,500) through the Utah Tibetan Community Foundation.

This significant contribution has enabled the school to acquire educational resources, including audio-visual equipment, internet connectivity, blackboards, whiteboards, colour printers, and computers for teachers, as well as a diverse collection of Tibetan children’s stories and books sourced from both inside and outside Tibet to support Tibetan language instruction.

Following the inauguration, Education Kalon addressed the teachers and students in the school hall at 11 a.m. The gathering also included the presentation of certificates of excellence and consolation awards to students of classes VI to VIII who participated in the 11th Tibetan Essay Writing Programme, held in September 2025 and organised by the Department of Education.

Addressing the faculties and students, Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra underlined the growing challenges posed to the preservation of Tibetan language and culture by the Chinese government’s policies, particularly under the framework of so-called “Ethnic Unity.” She stated that such measures pose a serious threat to the continuity of Tibetan identity, language, and cultural heritage. She noted that China is amending its laws in ways that seek to weaken ethnic identities, including Tibetan language and culture.

The Kalon remarked that in Tibet, Mandarin Chinese is increasingly being made compulsory in schools, while railway expansion and other infrastructure projects are being promoted in the name of development to present a misleading image to the international community. She stressed, however, that behind this narrative lies a systematic attempt to marginalise Tibetan language, culture, and identity.

The Kalon acknowledged that Tibetans living in exile bear an even greater responsibility to preserve and promote the Tibetan language, culture, and identity. She emphasised that schools, teachers, and parents all have a vital role to play in ensuring that younger generations remain firmly rooted in their linguistic and cultural heritage, particularly at a time when Tibetans inside Tibet are unable to freely preserve and practise their identity under the restrictions imposed by the government of the People’s Republic of China. She pleaded with teachers and students to uphold the traditional values of Tibetan culture and to follow the teachings of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.

Addressing the students, Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra encouraged them to approach their studies with dedication, ambition, and a clear sense of purpose. She emphasised the importance of setting goals from an early stage and working hard to achieve them through sincerity and consistent effort. She urged the students to make the best use of the educational opportunities available to them and to strive to become responsible and capable individuals who can contribute meaningfully to the Tibetan community in the future. She also encouraged them to study diligently and make their parents and teachers proud through their conduct and achievements.

Concluding her address, the Education Kalon reminded the students of the importance of discipline, respect, and good behaviour in school. She urged them to remain respectful towards their teachers and school staff, and to uphold these values as an essential part of their studies and overall development. She also noted that if these facilities prove successful and beneficial, similar resources may be introduced in other schools in the future.

The gathering concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Headmistress Tenzin Choedon.

After lunch, in a separate address to the teaching and non-teaching staff at the school library, the Education Kalon underscored the importance of maintaining hygiene and good health, stressing that a healthy and clean school environment is essential for both educators and learners. She noted that the overall well-being of the school community plays an important role in creating a positive and effective learning atmosphere.

The Kalon further reminded the staff that teachers carry a special responsibility, as they play a vital role in shaping the knowledge, discipline, character, and future of younger generations. In this regard, she encouraged teachers to carry out their responsibilities with dedication, ambition, and compassion, and to nurture students with care and a genuine sense of commitment.

The Education Kalon also stressed that teaching should not be limited to classroom instruction alone, but should also inspire in students a love for learning and a deeper understanding of values and responsibility. She highlighted the importance of educating not only the mind but also the heart of young students, so that they may grow into capable individuals.

Recalling her own experiences as a former teacher, the Kalon also emphasised the importance of teamwork and mutual support among teaching and non-teaching staff. She noted that the smooth and effective functioning of a school depends on the collective responsibility and cooperation of all staff members. She further underscored the importance of proper lesson planning and preparation, noting that well-structured teaching plays a key role in ensuring effective classroom learning.

Concluding her address, Education Kalon also encouraged the staff to openly communicate and work together whenever challenges arise in the school environment, stressing that a united and supportive approach is essential to the successful functioning of any educational institution.

Throughout her visit, the Education Kalon was accompanied by staff from the Department of Education, including Additional Secretary Tenzin Pema, Deputy Secretary Ngodup Tenpa, Under Secretary Dorjee Wangdue, Under Secretary Tsering Yangkyi, and Under Secretary Tenzin Kunchok.

Dharamshala: A delegation of Indian scholars and analysts visited the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile earlier today, 31 March 2026, where they met with Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel. The visit was part of an orientation program organized by the Tibet Action Institute in partnership with Asia Strategy Forum and Closed-Door Policy Consulting. The program brought together select scholars and analysts working on or interested in issues related to China, Tibet, and the Indo-Pacific.

The delegation included Kalpit Mankikar (Fellow, Strategic Studies Programme, Observer Research Foundation, New Delhi), Sarada Subhash (Research Associate, Vivekananda International Foundation, New Delhi), Namrata Hasija (Research Fellow, Centre for China Analysis and Strategy, New Delhi), Kamal Madishetty (Assistant Professor, Rishihood University, Haryana), Prof. Dr. Hindol Sengupta (Professor, Jindal School of International Affairs and Director, Jindal India Institute, Haryana), Dr. Chirayu Thakkar (National University of Singapore), Vivek Mishra (Deputy Director, Strategic Studies Programme, Observer Research Foundation), Ankit Tiwari (Research Associate, Centre for the Study of Developing Regions), Jyotsna Mehra (Founder, Closed-Door Policy Consulting), Tarushikha Sarvesh (Assistant Professor, Advanced Centre for Women’s Studies at Aligarh Muslim University), and MP Dorjee Tseten (Program Director at the Tibet Action Institute and Member of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile).

The program aims to facilitate a structured exchange between Indian researchers and the Tibetan leadership, as well as the broader scholarly and policy community, on issues of contemporary relevance to Tibet–India–China relations and regional security.

Addressing the Indian scholars and analysts, the Speaker highlighted how Tibetans in the diaspora, under the leadership of the Central Tibetan Administration, have sustained and strengthened their community over more than six decades in exile, owing in large part to the continued support of India and its people. He expressed deep gratitude for India’s longstanding hospitality and assistance.

Speaking on the evolution of Tibetan democracy, the Speaker noted that India’s democratic system served as an important source of inspiration. He recalled that His Holiness the Dalai Lama, during his visit to India in 1956 on the 2500th Buddha Jayanti, had the opportunity to observe proceedings in the Indian Parliament, an experience that influenced his vision for a democratic framework for Tibet.

Following his enthronement, His Holiness initiated a series of political and social reforms in Tibet, including the establishment of institutions such as the Reform Office and the Judicial Affairs Office to address governance and social issues. These efforts, however, were disrupted following the occupation of Tibet by the People’s Republic of China (PRC). After coming into exile in India in 1959, His Holiness continued these reforms and laid the foundations of a democratic system in exile, including the establishment of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile in 1960 with 13 members.

The Speaker also highlighted key milestones in the democratisation process, including the introduction of the position of the Kalon Tripa (later renamed Sikyong), who came to be directly elected by the Tibetan people, and the eventual devolution of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s political and administrative authority to the elected leadership of the Central Tibetan Administration in 2011.

He further elaborated on the composition and functioning of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, including its electoral processes, which enable representation of Tibetans living across the global diaspora. The Central Tibetan Administration’s core objectives which are seeking a peaceful resolution to the Sino-Tibetan conflict, ensuring the welfare of Tibetans in exile, advocating for the rights of Tibetans inside Tibet, and raising awareness about environmental degradation on the Tibetan Plateau under PRC administration were also underscored.

The Speaker concluded by emphasising the unique and enduring relationship between India and Tibet, rooted in centuries of shared historical, cultural, religious, and intellectual ties. He particularly noted the influence of Indian democratic values on Tibetan governance in exile and the foundational role of India in the transmission of Buddhism, which remains central to Tibetan identity.

– Report filed by Tibetan Parliamentary Secretariat 

Dharamshala, 31 March 2026: Sikyong Penpa Tsering on Tuesday inaugurated newly constructed staff quarters designated for the Secretary, Additional and Joint Secretaries of the Central Tibetan Administration at Gangchen Kyishong. The residential facilities have been developed under the supervision of the Tibetan Administration Welfare Society (TAWS) and Department of Home, CTA, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance staff welfare and infrastructure.

The inauguration ceremony commenced with a brief prayer ceremony conducted by monks from the Nechung Monastery, followed by the formal ribbon-cutting. Sikyong toured both buildings, inspecting the residential quarters and associated facilities alongside CTA secretaries. The visit provided an opportunity to review the quality and readiness of the accommodations intended to support senior administrative staff.

The event concluded with a modest tea reception hosted by Home Secretary Palden Dhondup. During the gathering, the Sikyong presented ceremonial khatas in appreciation of the contributions made by Government contractor Puran Chand and architect Amardeep, acknowledging their roles in the successful completion of the project.

I wholeheartedly endorse the powerful appeal for peace made by the Holy Father, Pope Leo, during his Palm Sunday Mass. His call for the laying down of arms and the renunciation of violence resonated profoundly with me, as it speaks to the very essence of what all major religions teach.

Indeed, whether we look to Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism or any of the world’s great spiritual traditions, the message is fundamentally the same: love, compassion, tolerance, and self-discipline. Violence finds no true home in any of these teachings. History has shown us time and again that violence only begets more violence and is never a lasting foundation for peace.

An enduring resolution to conflict, including the ones we see in the Middle East or between Russia and Ukraine, must be rooted in dialogue, diplomacy and mutual respect — approached with the understanding that, at the deepest level, we are all brothers and sisters.

I urge for and pray that the violence and conflicts may soon come to an end.

DALAI LAMA

31 March 2026

Dharamshala: Earlier this morning at the Kashag Secretariat, Sikyong Penpa Tsering signed on the reserved margin of a colour-printed Tibetan National Flag and Emblem as a dedicatory attestation, following the adoption of the Rules and Regulations for the Use of the Tibetan National Flag, Emblem, and Anthem by the 17th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile during its recently concluded 11th session.

The copies of the Tibetan National Flag and Emblem also bear the signature of Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel.

In his address after the signing, Sikyong stated that the standardisation of the usage of the Tibetan National Flag, Emblem, and Anthem is pivotal in emphasising Tibet’s historical status as an independent nation prior to its forceful annexation by the People’s Liberation Army. Sikyong also noted that similar rules and regulations had been introduced twice since the assumption of political leadership in exile by former Kalon Tripa Kyabje Samdhong Rinpoche.

According to the Sikyong, the standardised versions of the Tibetan National Flag, Emblem, and Anthem will be promulgated for public use in the coming May.

The Central Tibetan Administration’s standardisation of Tibetan national symbols, aimed at underscoring Tibet’s historical independence status, also forms part of its broader policy strategy. This includes leveraging the objectives of the Middle Way Policy to call upon the People’s Republic of China to return to the negotiation table without preconditions, while also strengthening international support for the Tibetan cause.

Dharamshala: His Holiness the Dalai Lama has written to The Most Reverend Sarah Mullally to offer his heartfelt congratulations on her appointment as Archbishop of Canterbury.

“The world today faces many profound challenges,” he wrote, “and this is a time when fundamental human values are being tested. As religious leaders, I believe we bear a special responsibility to reaffirm these values and bring them to wider attention. All the world’s great religions counsel compassion, patience, self-discipline, and contentment, and offer practical guidance on how to cultivate them. These are qualities we can meaningfully share with all of humanity.

“I am delighted to know that you will be the first woman to lead the Anglican Church. There is growing scientific evidence suggesting that women tend to be more attuned to the well-being of others, particularly when it comes to compassion. It is therefore my sincere conviction that a world with more women in leadership would be a more understanding and peaceful one. Your appointment is a beacon of hope.”

His Holiness ended his letter by offering his prayers and good wishes.

Dharamshala: Sikyong Penpa Tsering, on behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration and the Tibetan people, extended his warmest congratulations to the newly elected Prime Minister of Nepal, Honourable Balendra Shah, who was sworn in on 27 March 2026.

In his congratulatory letter, the Sikyong wrote, “Your emergence as the youngest Prime Minister, following the recent Gen-Z led movement, stands as a powerful symbol of the aspirations of the people of Nepal, particularly younger generation.”

The letter further reads, “Nepal and Tibet share deeply rooted historical and spiritual bonds that have endured across generations. These ties are further strengthened by the Tibetan community in Nepal, who, having found refuge following the forced occupation of Tibet, have long contributed to the social and economic fabric of Nepal while preserving their Tibetan identity. This was made possible by the generosity of the Government and people of Nepal, for which we remain deeply grateful.”

He concluded by stating, “Please accept my sincere congratulations and my best wishes for your success as you lead Nepal during this significant period in its history. Under your able leadership, we look forward to the continued strengthening of the friendship between our people and hope for Nepal to advance towards progress, prosperity, and positive change.”

Prague: In a historic display of international solidarity, the Czech Senate on 25 March, 2026, passed a landmark resolution defending the religious freedom of the Tibetan people and their exclusive right to determine their future spiritual leader. The motion passed with an overwhelming 40 votes in favour and none opposed, signalling a unified rejection of recent legislative efforts by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to control Tibetan spiritual identity. The resolution specifically recommends the Czech government, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to support the Tibetan people’s free choice of the 15th Dalai Lama.

The resolution comes after years of sustained advocacy by the Tibetan leadership, whose engagements with Czech officials and parliamentarians have helped raise awareness of Tibet’s religious and cultural rights. Alongside the broader community of Czech supporters, these efforts contributed to shaping a consensus in the Senate in favour of Tibetan spiritual autonomy.

Proposed by Senate Vice-President Jitka Seitlova and supported by Senators Přemysl Rabas, Břetislav Rychlík, and Jiří Růžička, the resolution highlights the Czech Republic’s long-standing relationship with Tibet. It recalls the December 2025 parliamentary delegation visit to Dharamshala, their meeting with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and the private meeting between President Petr Pavel and the 14th Dalai Lama in July 2025.

During the debate, Senate Vice-President Jiří Oberfalzer who was chairing the session welcomed Thinlay Chukki, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Central Tibetan Administration, noting her presence as a sign of the Senate’s solidarity with Tibetans facing repression in China. The Representative was accompanied by Advocacy Officer  Phuntsok Topgyal who also attended the entire debate session.

Senate Vice-President Jitka Seitlova emphasised the resolution’s broader human rights context, stating: “This is not merely a regional matter. Restricting freedom, curtailing identity, and undermining human rights anywhere affects the security and values we cherish worldwide. The Tibetan people continue to suffer under occupation, and it is our duty to support them in their struggle for religious freedom and cultural survival.”

Senator Přemysl Rabas, rapporteur for the resolution, drew a sharp analogy, comparing Chinese attempts to control the Dalai Lama’s succession to a hypothetical scenario where the European Union would dictate the election of the Pope. He stressed that the resolution addresses both the Chinese government’s interference in Tibet and the recently passed Law on Ethnic Unity and Progress, which threatens the rights of ethnic minorities in China, including Tibetans.

Senator Břetislav Rychlík recounted harrowing stories from Tibetan exile communities, including the plight of children forced into state-run boarding schools, stripped of their language and culture, and acts of protest through self-immolation. He described these measures as “a massive attempt at genocide against a historic nation” and called for urgent international support.

Thinlay Chukki, speaking after the resolution’s adoption, said:

“The Czech Senate has today sent a clear and powerful message to the world: spiritual heritage cannot be legislated by an authoritarian state. By standing with the Tibetan people in our right to choose our own leaders, the Czech Republic reaffirms its legacy as a champion of human dignity. This resolution is not just a document; it is a beacon of hope for every Tibetan and we are deeply grateful to the Czech Republic for this courageous stand.”

Key Parts of the Resolution:

• Exclusive Authority Over Reincarnation: The resolution’s most critical feature is the explicit declaration that the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has “no legitimate authority” to select the successor to the 14th Dalai Lama. It asserts that the selection of the 15th Dalai Lama is the “exclusive matter of the Tibetan people”. It supports the recent declaration of the 14th Dalai Lama regarding the continuation of the institution of the Dalai Lama and recognises the Ganden Phodrang as the authoritative institution and the sole authority in identifying the future reincarnation. This is a direct rejection of Beijing’s claims that the succession must follow Chinese law and central government approval.
• Opposition to Forced Assimilation Laws: The Senate expressed grave concern over the PRC’s “Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress,” passed on March 12, 2026. The resolution characterises this law as an instrument that “openly advocates assimilation” and restricts cultural, religious, and linguistic freedoms for minorities. Senators noted that while the law claims to strengthen unity, it actually provides a legal pretext for intensified, institutionalised repression against Tibetan identity.
• Recognition of International Legal Obligations: The resolution frames Tibet’s spiritual culture as a “supreme expression of culture” that must be protected under international law. It points out that China, as a member of UNESCO and a signatory to various conventions, has voluntarily assumed obligations to protect cultural diversity and the dignity of all cultures. The Senate argues that state sovereignty does not grant the PRC the right to “erase cultural diversity” but rather mandates its promotion.
• Condemnation of Transnational Repression: A significant aspect of the resolution is its focus on the global reach of Chinese influence. The Senate highlighted that the March 2026 ethnic unity law purports to apply to individuals outside of Chinese territory, including citizens of the US and the European Union who support Tibetan identity. During the debate, it was noted that “transnational repression” is already a reality, with over a hundred illegal foreign police stations—including one identified in Prague—used to harass and monitor the Tibetan diaspora.
• Diplomatic and Historical Context: The resolution reaffirms the “long-standing warm relations” between the Czech Republic and Tibet, rooted in the legacy of President Václav Havel. It specifically cites recent high-level engagements, including a private meeting between the Czech President and the Dalai Lama in July 2025 and a parliamentary delegation visit to Dharamshala in December 2025. By passing this resolution, the Senate aligns the Czech Republic with other democratic nations like the US in mandating that religious leaders be chosen without state interference.
• Government Action and International Implications: Finally, the resolution calls on the Czech government to actively advocate for Tibetan religious freedom and inform key officials, including the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, of its passage. It also signals solidarity with global democratic states that have voiced similar support for the Tibetan community, reinforcing international norms on religious autonomy and freedom of belief. The resolution therefore serves both as a symbolic and practical step in diplomatic advocacy, strengthening global support for Tibet and the preservation of its spiritual traditions.

The finalised version will be published soon on the Czech Senate website, meanwhile for the draft version of the resolution click here. The video archive of the debate is available here, and the transcript is provided below.

– Report filed by Office of Tibet, Geneva

Transcript of debate.

Dharamshala, 25 March 2026: The Tsuglagkhang, the Main Tibetan Temple, and the yard in front of it were profusely decorated with flowers this morning as part of ceremonies to pray for His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s long life. The occasion was attended by an estimated 4000 people.

When His Holiness reached the gate to his residence, representatives of the three groups offering prayers, the Association of People from Central Tibet, the Association of People from the Zachuka region of Kham and the Association of People from Kyirong, stepped forward to greet him. Then, led by monks playing horns and swinging censers, they escorted him to the temple. Dancers sang and danced in celebration in the temple yard.

Ling Rinpoché presided over today’s ceremony that was based on the Wish-fulfilling Wheel of White Tara. Seated to his right was the Abbot of Namgyal Monastery and to his left, Trulshik Rinpoché and the Dorjé Löbpön of Namgyal Monastery. Among the guests to the left of the throne were former Abbots of Ganden Jangtsé and Gyutö Monasteries.

Descriptions of complex visualizations were punctuated by a verse refrain:

May you prolong the life
Of our glorious, sacred Lama for 100 aeons
Please grant him
the spiritual accomplishment of immortality.

Next there were appeals to spiritual masters of the past to prolong the Lama’s life.

Ling Rinpoché came forward to present the Long-Life Arrow to His Holiness who took it and wielded it gently in all directions. Amitayus was invoked. A cord linking the lamas performing the ritual to His Holiness was distributed while tents of coloured light were evoked.

The Chant-master led a recitation of a mandala offering requesting the Lama to live 100 aeons for the sake of the teachings and sentient beings.  Reinforcing this request Ling Rinpoché asked “May you live 100 aeons so we may continue to collect merit and wisdom”. He also offered a mandala followed by a statue of Arya Tara, a scripture and a stupa, which represented the body, speech and mind of the enlightened ones. Next, he presented emblems representing the Buddhas of the five families, long-life liquor, pills for longevity, the seven royal emblems, the eight auspicious symbols, and the eight auspicious substances.

While the prayer for His Holiness’s Long Life by his two tutors was recited, representatives of the groups offering today’s ceremony approached the throne to receive His Holiness’s blessings.

The Association of People of Central Tibet presented His Holiness with an emblem they described as the World’s Refuge Award. One of their number read out an introduction to what it symbolizes:

“The award is crafted from fine bronze. Its circular form symbolizing His Holiness’s universal activity of love, compassion and righteousness, a radiant light for the world. At its centre the Potala Palace represents the long and glorious history of the Tibetan nation and His Holiness’s role as supreme refuge of the Tibetan people in this life and beyond. His Holiness’s characteristic compassionate smile expresses the heartfelt hope of the Tibetan people for his swift and auspicious return to the Potala and his sowing the seeds of love and compassion throughout the world.

“The rays of light radiating as a halo from behind his head illuminate his all-pervading compassion, which guides the entire world along the path of peace and well-being. Three clouds represent his three vows scattering blessings over the world like flowers falling from the sky and pouring a ceaseless rain of love and compassion upon all beings.

“The world map on the reverse symbolises His Holiness’s vision of universal responsibility, the oneness of humanity, the view of interdependence, and his conduct of peace and non-violence. The map of Tibet embodies his commitment to preserve, undiminished, the unique religious and cultural identity of the Tibetan people. The emblems of His Holiness’s ninetieth year and of the Years of Love and Compassion pay tribute to the breadth of his outer, inner and secret activities elevating the value of compassion in the world.

“The ring of mountains encircling the award evokes His Holiness’s incomparable kindness in safeguarding Tibet’s religion, politics and culture. The two snow lions supporting the award represent the entire Tibetan people’s admiration and reverence for His Holiness’s incomparable legacy of preserving the religion, politics and culture of Tibet.

“On the pedestal, an inscription in Tibetan and English proclaims that His Holiness is the incomparable refuge and protector of all beings on earth. The double endless knot at the very centre of the award, the symbol of Central Tibet, represents the union of religion and governance. The six-syllable mantra Om mani padme hum on the reverse illuminates the unique faith of the Tibetan people. May His Holiness remain firm and steadfast forever.”

The Association of People from Dokham Zachuka also presented His Holiness with a special memento and one of their number read out an accompanying testimony in which he expressed the hope that the people of Tibet may come together once more. The people of Dokham Zachuka pledged to follow His Holiness who is Padmapani, the holder of the lotus and a wish-granting jewel. They repeated the hope that they may all meet once more in Lhasa. `

A mandala and representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddhas were offered in thanksgiving for His Holiness’s accepting the request to live long.

Today’s ceremony was brought to an end with auspicious prayers including the ‘Words of Truth’. As monk’s playing horns and swinging censers, as well as representatives of today’s patrons, again led the way, His Holiness left the temple. As he neared the lift, he had a charming interaction with a small boy who jumped up and ran forward when he beckoned. After His Holiness had patted his head, the little boy waved and quickly folded his hands in prayer, much to His Holiness’s amusement. He continued to smile at well-wishers to right and left as he made his way back to his residence.