Tibet
- Statements from world leaders and others Intellectual.
Wed Apr 16, 3:02 PM ET
WASHINGTON (AFP) - US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice Wednesday called her Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi to discuss the situation in Tibet and Iran’s nuclear program, US officials said. Photo: US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice testifies before the house on Capitol Hill April 15, 2008 in Washington, DC. Rice Wednesday called her Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi to discuss the situation in Tibet and Iran’s nuclear program, US officials said. (AFP/GETTY IMAGES/File/Alex Wong) “They spoke about Iran, the efforts of the P-5-plus-1 to work on the two pathways, the incentives and disincentives package,” said State Department spokesman Sean McCormack. Representatives for the United States, Russia, Britain, France, Germany, China and the European Union failed to agree in talks in Shanghai Wednesday on proposals to bring Tehran back to the negotiating table. Rice and Yang also “talked about the issue of Tibet. They talked about Taiwan,” McCormack said. “But from our side, the secretary reiterated what you have heard us say in public, and that is encouraging the Chinese government to engage in a dialogue with the Dalai Lama and his people.” Earlier McCormack said the talks in China on Iran’s nuclear program were focusing on possible “incentives” rather than purely punitive measures against Tehran for continuing its suspect nuclear program. Tehran insists its program is entirely peaceful and aimed at generating energy. But its official IRNA news agency said last week it was now operating 492 new centrifuges at the Natanz uranium enrichment plant, in defiance of UN calls to freeze the process. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Throughout, the international community will be reassured if the government allows members of the press and United Nations Human Rights investigators full access within Tibet. Without that access, progress is unlikely and an opportunity may be lost. Notes to Editors Nelson Mandela announced the formation of The Elders, July 18th, 2007 in Johannesburg, South Africa on the occasion of his 89th birthday. Founding members of The Elders are: Gra�a Machel, Desmond Tutu, Kofi Annan, Ela Bhatt, Lakhdar Brahimi, Gro Harlem Brundtland, Fernando Henrique Cardoso, Jimmy Carter, Li Zhaoxing, Mary Robinson and Muhammad Yunus. “This group can speak freely and boldly, working both publicly and behind the scenes on whatever actions need to be taken,” Mandela commented. “Together we will work to support courage where there is fear, foster agreement where there is conflict, and inspire hope where there is despair.” The Elders will use their unique collective skills to catalyze peaceful resolutions to long-standing conflicts, articulate new approaches to global issues that are or may cause immense human suffering, and share wisdom by helping to connect voices all over the world. In addition to working independently, The Elders will work to complement, not duplicate or compete with the efforts of other organizations. They will seek opportunities to partner with established groups in ways that help shine a light on work already underway or to assist in bringing the group’s efforts to another level. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE following is an English translation of Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's speech delivered in Mandarin to Chinese students at Peking University. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rice urges China to grant media, diplomatic access to Tibet : (April 11, 2008 ) WASHINGTON, April 11, 2008 (AFP) - US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice urged China on Friday to open its troubled region of Tibet up to journalists and diplomats. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
P6_TA-PROV(2008)0119 European Parliament resolution of 10 April 2008 on Tibet – having regard to its earlier resolutions on China and on Tibet, in particular on: (a) the dialogue between the Chinese Government and Envoys of the Dalai Lama (15 Feb 2007)1, (b) the EU-China Summit and the EU/China human rights dialogue (13 December 2007)2, (c) EU-China relations (7 September 2006)3, (d) the functioning of the human rights dialogues and consultations on human rights with – having regard to Rule 103(4) of its Rules of Procedure, A. whereas the 49th anniversary of the Tibetan national uprising against the Chinese B. whereas, according to the Chinese authorities, 20 people died in the protests; whereas, C. whereas a state of emergency has been declared by the Chinese Government, and shops D. whereas His Holiness the Dalai Lama has called this Chinese over-reaction 'cultural E. whereas only peaceful means and sincere dialogue can lead to a lasting settlement, F. whereas, save for an official international press trip organised by the Chinese G. whereas the Chinese Government appears to be blocking foreign websites inside China H. convinced that the Beijing Olympic Games represent an extraordinary opportunity for I. whereas the EU-China human rights dialogue established in 2000 has failed to achieve 1. Firmly condemns the brutal repression visited by the Chinese security forces on Tibetan 2. Calls on the Chinese Government to guarantee adequate medical care for injured Tibetans 3. Criticises the often discriminatory treatment of non-Han Chinese ethnic minorities; calls 4. Calls for an open and independent inquiry, under the auspices of the United Nations, into 5. Welcomes the fact that His Holiness the Dalai Lama has called on the Tibetan people to 6. Calls on the Chinese authorities to open up Tibet to the media and diplomats, in particular 7. Is concerned about the increasing economic marginalisation of the Tibetan people in 8. Calls on China to respect its own public commitments to human rights and minority 9. Urges China to ratify without any further delay and in any case before the Olympic 10. Regrets that the six sessions of talks between the Chinese authorities and His Holiness the 11. Calls on the Council, and in particular the Presidency, closely to monitor developments, 12. Reiterates, in this regard, its call on the Council to appoint a special envoy for Tibetan 13. Endorses the statement by His Holiness the Dalai Lama that the Olympic Games are a 14. Calls on the EU Presidency-in-Office to strive to find a common EU position with regard 15. Urges the People's Republic of China to stop scrutinising and judging Olympic athletes 16. Looks forward to His Holiness the Dalai Lama 's visit to the European Parliament to 17. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Archbishop of Durban says China diverting focus on rights violation Wednesday, 9 April 2008, 4:17 p.m. Pretoria:Archbishop of Durban Wilfrid Cardinal Napier said Wednesday that Chinese authorities are trying to divert world attention from their violations of human rights perpetrated against the Tibetans by accusing His Holiness the Dalai Lama of being responsible for the action of the Tibetan people to throw off the shackles of oppression and abuse. "It is a well-tested truism in any situation of war or conflict the first casualty is the truth," he said. He said, it is clear that those responsible for the sad state of affairs have made false accusations against His Holiness the Dalai Lama when the peaceful protests spread across many parts of Tibet. His Holiness, by his personal life and charisma stands out as a beacon for hope for the repressed Tibetans, he added. "We, who know and respect His Holiness the Dalai Lama know where the truth lies, and no amount of lying will change the truth that is a reflection of God's presence among his people, especially the poor and downtrodden," he said. He offered his prayer for the protection of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and all those who struggle for peace and harmony especially using peaceful and non-aggressive means. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Press Releases Contact:
Pelosi, Members of India Congressional Delegation Introduce Resolution in Support of Tibet Washington, D.C. – Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today after she and members of the bipartisan Congressional Delegation that met with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government-in-Exile in India introduced House Resolution 1077. The Resolution, which calls on the Chinese government to end its crackdown in Tibet and to enter into a substantive dialogue with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, will be on the House floor next week. "Leaders around the world have called for the Chinese government to take steps to end its crackdown on peaceful Tibetans and enter into a dialogue with his Holiness the Dalai Lama, and now the House of Representative will have the opportunity to join the international chorus of calls for peace and freedom. "The cause of Tibet is a challenge to the conscience of the world. For far too long, the Tibetan people have suffered due to the repressive policies of the Chinese government as they have sought the basic human rights and dignity to which all people of the world are entitled. "I look forward to the House making a powerful and unified statement in support of the fundamental freedom and dignity of the Tibetan people at this critical time." # # # IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Ms. PELOSI (for herself, Mr. SENSENBRENNER, Mr. MARKEY, Mr. GEORGE MILLER, Mr. MCDERMOTT, Ms. ESHOO, Mr. INSLEE, Ms. SOLIS, Ms. NORTON, and Mr. HOLT) submitted the following resolution; RESOLUTION Calling on the Government of the People's Republic of China to end its crackdown in Tibet and enter into a substantive dialogue with His Holiness the Dalai Lama to find a negotiated solution that respects the distinctive language, culture, religious identity, and fundamental freedoms of all Tibetans, and for other purposes. Whereas March 10, 2008, marked the 49th anniversary of a historic uprising against Chinese rule over the Tibetan people, which forced His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama, to escape into exile in India; Whereas Tibetan Buddhist monks and nuns in and around Lhasa were blocked by Chinese authorities from staging peaceful demonstrations on this anniversary date and were met with excessive force by the Chinese authorities; Whereas protests by Tibetans spread inside the Tibet Autonomous Region and other Tibetan areas of China; Whereas the accumulated grievances of almost six decades of cultural, religious, economic, and linguistic repression of the Tibetan people by the Government of the People's Republic of China has resulted in resentments which are at the root of the Tibetan protests; Whereas resentment of the Chinese Government by the Tibetan people has increased sharply since 2005 as a result of Chinese policies, laws, and regulations that have reduced economic opportunity for Tibetans and severely eroded the ability of Tibetans to preserve their distinctive language, culture, and religious identity; Whereas the response by the Chinese Government to the Tibetan protests was disproportionate and extreme, reportedly resulting in the deaths of hundreds and the detention of thousands of Tibetans; Whereas there have been reports that some Tibetans engaged in rioting that may have resulted in the destruction of government and private property, as well as the deaths of civilians; Whereas His Holiness the Dalai Lama has used his leadership to promote democracy, freedom, and peace for the Tibetan people through a negotiated settlement of the Tibet issue, based on autonomy within the context of China; Whereas six rounds of dialogue between representatives of the Dalai Lama and Chinese officials have not resulted in meaningful progress; Whereas the Chinese Government has rebuffed calls by the President of the United States, the United States Congress, and world leaders to respond positively to the Dalai Lama's willingness to be personally involved in discussions with Chinese leaders on the future of Tibet; Whereas the Chinese Government has denigrated the Dalai Lama, labeling him as ''a splittist'' and ''a wolf in monk's robes'', thereby further alienating Tibetans who consider the Dalai Lama their spiritual leader; Whereas the Dalai Lama was recognized for his contribution to world peace when he received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989; Whereas the United States Congress, in recognition of the Dalai Lama's outstanding moral and religious leadership and his advocacy of nonviolence, awarded him with the Congressional Gold Medal on October 17, 2007; Whereas the Chinese Government has failed to honor its commitment to improve the human rights situation in China as a condition for Beijing being selected as the site for the 2008 Summer Olympic Games; Whereas the Chinese Government has impeded the access of international journalists to Tibetan areas of China and distorted reports of events surrounding the Tibetan protests, thereby violating the commitment it made that ''there will be no restrictions on media reporting and movement of journalists up to and including the Olympic Games''; Whereas for many years, the Chinese Government has restricted the ability of foreign journalists and foreign government officials, including United States Government officials, to freely travel in Tibetan areas of China, thereby curtailing access to information on the situation in Tibetan areas; Whereas the Chinese Government's use of propaganda during the protests to demonize Tibetans and incite ethnic nationalism is exacerbating ethnic tensions and is counterproductive to resolving the situation; Whereas the United States Department of State included the People's Republic of China among the group of countries described as ''the most systematic violators of human rights'' in the introduction of the 2006 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices and in previous Human Rights Reports, but did not do so in the 2007 Human Rights Report, despite no evidence of significant improvements in the human rights situation in China in the past year; and Whereas it is the policy of the United States ''to support the aspirations of the Tibetan people to safeguard their distinct identity'' and ''to support economic development, cultural preservation, health care, and education and environmental sustainability for Tibetans inside Tibet'', in accordance with the Tibetan Policy Act of 2002 (22 U.S.C. 6901 note): Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the United States House of Representatives— (1) calls on the Government of the People's Republic of China to end its crackdown on nonviolent Tibetan protestors and its continuing cultural, religious, economic, and linguistic repression inside Tibet; (2) calls on the Chinese Government to begin a results-based dialogue, without preconditions, directly with His Holiness the Dalai Lama to address the legitimate grievances of the Tibetan people and provide for a long-term solution that respects the human rights and dignity of every Tibetan; (3) calls on the Chinese Government to allow independent international monitors and journalists, free and unfettered access to the Tibet Autonomous Region and all other Tibetan areas of China for the purpose of monitoring and documenting events surrounding the Tibetan protests and to verify that individuals injured receive adequate medical care; (4) calls on the Chinese Government to immediately release all Tibetans who are imprisoned for nonviolently expressing opposition to Chinese Government policies in Tibet; (5) calls on the United States Department of State to publicly issue a statement reconsidering its decision not to include the People's Republic of China among the group of countries described as ''the world's most systematic human rights violators'' in the introduction of the 2007 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices; and (6) calls on the United States Department of State to fully implement the Tibetan Policy Act of 2002 (22 U.S.C. 6901 note), including the stipulation that the Secretary of State ''seek to establish an office in Lhasa, Tibet to monitor political, economic and cultural developments in Tibet'', and also to provide consular protection and citizen services in emergencies, and further urges that the agreement to permit China to open further diplomatic missions in the United States should be contingent upon the establishment of a United States Government office in Lhasa. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contact: Natalie Ravitz (Boxer) 202 224-8120 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 2, 2008
Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asian and Pacific Affairs, together with Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Olympia Snowe (R-ME), today led a bipartisan group of 27 Senators in sending a letter calling on Chinese President Hu Jintao to bring about a timely, peaceful resolution to the current crisis in Tibet and to respect the human rights of the Tibetan people. In the letter, the Senators encourage the Chinese government to increase transparency by removing current restrictions on the press and to disclose accurate information about Tibetan individuals who have been detained, injured, and killed since the crisis began. Media reports quote the Tibetan government in exile as putting the death toll from the demonstrations at about 140, while China has put the death toll at 22. The Senators also ask that the government release peaceful protestors who have been detained and meet directly with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, whose "deep bond with the Tibetan people make[s] him key to achieving a negotiated solution to the Tibet issue."
it is also my sincere hope that China will take this opportunity to listen to the valid, long-standing concerns of the Tibetan people and extend an open hand to the Dalai Lama, whose wisdom and leadership is deeply respected by the Tibetan people and the international community." Brown said, “China’s crackdown on the people of Tibet is inexcusable. Beijing has long sought a place at the table of global leaders. But systematic and violent repression of free speech, political protest and the eradication of ethnic culture, religion, and language are not the acts of a world leader, nor a country we should be striving to open to free trade. President Hu Jintao must take immediate steps to end the violent repression, open up to western media and release all political prisoners.” Snowe said, “The violent crackdown perpetrated against the Tibetan people last month has already shattered the illusion that China's economic development, without political liberalization, is synonymous with modernization. It is in all of humanity's interest to now ensure that, when the world turns its gaze to this summer's games in Beijing, the Olympic flame is not obscured by a curtain of smoke rising from Tibet.” In addition to Boxer, Brown and Snowe, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Joseph R. Biden, Jr.(D-DE), Bernard Sanders (I-VT), Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD), Tom Harkin (D-IA), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Christopher J. Dodd (D-CT), Jon Kyl (R-AZ), Tom Coburn (R-OK), Max Baucus (D-MT), Russell D. Feingold (D-WI), James M. Inhofe (R-OK), Larry E. Craig (R-ID), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Robert C. Byrd (D-WV), John E. Sununu (R-NH), Gordon H. Smith (R-OR), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Sam Brownback (R-KS), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jon Tester (D-MT), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), and Mark Pryor (D-AR). (Full text of the letter follows) The Honorable Hu Jintao President People’s Republic of China Dear President Hu: We write today to respectfully urge you, in the strongest possible terms, to take all necessary steps to bring about a peaceful resolution to the current crisis in Tibet and to respect the human rights of the Tibetan people.
First and foremost, we ask that the Chinese government remove its restrictions on the media and communications, and allow independent monitors and the foreign press unfettered access to the region. We believe that lack of reliable information is only fueling uncertainty, causing resentment and discord on both sides of the issue. Increased transparency will be an important factor in resolving the conflict and is the best assurance against further escalation of the violence. Such transparency should include disclosing the names and whereabouts of any Tibetans, including Tibetan monks, who were detained in the wake of recent events. It is particularly critical that the world be given an accurate picture of the number of individuals detained, injured, and killed since the crisis began. We also ask that the government release those detained for peaceful protest and demonstrate respect for the internationally-recognized right to peaceful assembly and expression of political opinion. Finally, we ask that the government move quickly, and at the highest level, to meet directly with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and engage in substantive dialogue to restore stability and bring genuine autonomy to the region. The Dalai Lama’s respected stature in the international community and deep bond with the Tibetan people make him key to achieving a negotiated solution to the Tibet issue and to peacefully implementing any agreement that is reached. The protests seem to reflect long-simmering Tibetan resentment toward Chinese policies and laws that have failed to respect the basic rights of the people of Tibet. They also appear to reflect Tibetans’ belief that the six years of dialogue conducted to date—without the direct participation of the Dalai Lama—has been too slow and unyielding of results. For stability to last, the underlying causes of the public protests must be addressed, and policies that address the interest of both the Tibetan people and the Chinese government must be considered. In any such dialogue, it is vitally important that the Chinese set forth a timeline and framework for evaluation of substantive progress. An expedient resolution of the Tibet question through official negotiations that include measurable results favors both the Tibetan people and the Chinese government. Again, we urge you to do everything possible to bring about a peaceful resolution to this crisis. As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, China would be best served by expeditiously resolving this issue in a manner that reflects international norms and respect for human rights. We look forward to continued dialogue on this matter and others that are important to the US-China bilateral relationship. Thank you for your consideration of this most important request. Sincerely, - Barbara Boxer -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The two Presidents also discussed North Korean denuclearization. President Bush expressed appreciation to President Hu for the important role China has played within the Six-Party framework. The two presidents pledged to continue to work closely with the other Six-Party partners in urging North Korea to deliver a complete and correct ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
US Senator Criticizes China For Blaming Dalai Lama On Tibet [Date: Monday, April 1, 2008 ] WASHINGTON (AFP)--A U.S. senator influential on foreign policy said Monday he was disappointed with China for "unfairly" accusing Tibet's spiritual leader the Dalai Lama of masterminding protests in the Himalayan territory. Sen. Richard Lugar, R-Ind., the ranking Republican in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, also challenged China to allow journalists and diplomats full access to Tibet to determine whether Beijing allegedly overreacted to the protests. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The influx of Chinese immigrants in Tibet is a serious threat: British MP London, March 9: The 49th anniversary of the 10th March 1959 Tibetan national uprising day was marked here yesterday with a huge rally from the Chinese Embassy to the Office of the British Prime Minister and a remembrance Tibet day afternoon event, followed by an evening concert to honour the reunion of some former Drapchi prisoners of conscience, popularly know as the 'Singing nuns of Tibet' now living in freedom in exile. Speaking on the occasion, the Guest Speaker, Mr. Fabian Hamilton, MP and member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, told the afternoon gathering at the Westminster Cathedral Hall that the issue of Tibet is serious and worthy of every support. “The influx of Chinese settlers in Tibet is a serious threat and is making the Tibetans a minority in their own land. When we were in Lhasa (capital of Tibet) we saw Chinese everywhere and more were due to arrive and many will have come now because of the introduction of the railway line from China to Tibet,” said Mr. Hamilton, who was one of the members of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the House of Commons that visited Tibet in 2006 and reported their findings in a report. He informed the audience how during their visit to Lhasa he and his colleagues and the interpreter from the British Embassy in Beijing had to dodge Chinese minders so that they could see the real situation of the Tibetan people. He also said that at one point on seeing the picture of the previous Panchen Lama in a temple, he asked the Chinese interpreter where was the picture of the Dalai Lama? He said the Chinese interpreter had no answer and was looking nervously at the Chinese official accompanying them. “For some reason His Holiness the Dalai Lama, a man of great peace is considered a threat by the Chinese authorities,” said Mr. Hamilton, adding that for once he agreed with the current American President George W. Bush, who when presenting the US Congressional Gold Medal to His Holiness said that China should not fear because the Dalai Lama is “a man of faith, sincerity and peace.” The British parliamentarian also urged Prime Minister Gordon Brown to meet with His Holiness during his visit to UK in May. “Our duty today is to see to it that peaceful and non-violence means adopted to resolve issues makes ‘headlines’”, said Mr. Hamilton, who accompanied by his family also visited Dharamsala last year with five other members of the parliament. Besides witnessing the various aspects of the democratic set up of the Tibetans in Diaspora, they also had an audience with His Holiness. His Holiness the Dalai Lama is visiting UK in May this year primarily at the invitations received from the All Party Parliamentary Group for Tibet, Tibet Society, Dharma Network (formed of various Buddhist organisations in UK), Blackfriars Hall of Oxford University and the Oxford Centre for Buddhist Studies, to give a series of public talks and teachings in London, Oxford and Nottingham. This visit, as other visits of His Holiness to Northern Europe, Poland and the Baltic Countries, is being coordinated by the Office of Tibet, London. An Early Day Motion (EDM) 984 sponsored in the House of Commons by Mr. Norman Baker, MP, , while welcoming the forthcoming visit of His Holiness to the UK calls upon the British Prime Minister to recognise “the strong historical connections between this country and Tibet” and “take the opportunity to met the Dalai Lama on the occasion of his visit” in line with how the Tibetan Nobel Peace Laureate has recently been met by “President George Bush, Chancellor Angela Merkel and the leaders of Australia, Canada and Austria”. In his address, Mr. Tsering Tashi, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama for Northern Europe, Poland and the Baltic Countries, said Mr. Hamilton’s acceptance of the invitation to the Tibetan event despite his busy schedule demonstrates the British public’s sympathy and support for the just cause of Tibet. He also thanked everyone, including some Tibetans and supporters who had come from different parts of the UK and Europe, for coming to the event to mark the Tibet Day. He said the presence, especially of the four former Drapchi prisoners of conscience clearly proves that the global and Tibetan efforts in exile is not in vain. “The story of their road to freedom in exile after suffering many years of hardship and even torture at the hands of the Chinese authorities in occupied Tibet is a reminder to all of us that the human sprit cannot be vanquished by force,” said Mr. Tashi, who is based at the Office of Tibet in London. Mr. Tashi spoke about the contrasting situation of the globally acknowledged success story of the Tibetan refugee community in exile and the ongoing plight of the Tibetans back home in Tibet under the Chinese rule. He expressed concern at the increasing Chinese population in Tibet, which is transforming the Tibetans not only into a powerless and an insignificant minority in their own land but also posing a serious threat to the very survival of the Tibetan culture and identity. He said although the work that some NGOs and Western governments are doing in Tibet aimed to help the Tibetans is much appreciated, the outcome would be diluted when faced with the reality of the overwhelming immigrant Chinese population force. “The important work that now remains to be done is how to reverse this dangerous demographic aggression of Tibet and persuade China to discourage the settling of Chinese in Tibet,” Mr. Tashi said, while acknowledging the fact that with better awareness and information more and more Chinese were showing respect for Tibetan Buddhist culture and supporting His Holiness the Dalai Lama‘s non-violent Middle-Way Approach to resolve the Tibet issue that takes into consideration the long term interest of both the Tibetan and Chinese peoples. Mr. Tashi also referred to similar concerns raised by the former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, who in her autobiography says, “The Chinese claim to Tibet is dubious on historical grounds,” and that “The Chinese now appear to have resolved upon a programme of ’modernisation’ that involves shifting the ethnic balance in favour of Han Chinese and away from Tibetans, as a final solution to the continuing resistance. I hope that they do not succeed.” As in the past, the afternoon Tibet Day event was jointly organised by the Tibetan Commemorative Committee consisting of the Office of Tibet, the Tibetan Community in Britain and the Tibet Society. A specially prepared drama-song presented by the Tibetan Community Dance Group showing how Tibetan prisoners are being harshly treated by the Chinese authorities in Tibet, generated gasps and total silence in the capacity-filled hall and moved many people to tears. The event began with prayers for the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and peace in world, and closed with the singing of the Tibetan national anthem. The former Tibetan nun political prisoners Phuntsok Nyidron, Ngawang Sangdrol, Gyaltsen Drolkar and Namdrol Lhamo, who currently live in Switzerland, the United States and Belgium respectively, are in London at the invitation of the Tibetan Community in Britain as a part of its effort to raise more awareness about the Tibet issue. With help of Students for a Free Tibet and other supporters, they will be touring for about four weeks giving talks and participating in concerts at various educational and public venues in different parts of the UK. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Obama on Tibet ProtestsMarch 15th, 2008
I am deeply disturbed by reports of a crackdown and arrests ordered by Chinese authorities in the wake of peaceful protests by Tibetan Buddhist monks. I condemn the use of violence to put down peaceful protests, and call on the Chinese government to respect the basic human rights of the people of Tibet, and to account for the whereabouts of detained Buddhist monks. These events come on the 49th anniversary of the exile of the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhists, the Dalai Lama. They demonstrate the continuing frustration of the Tibetan people at the way in which Beijing has ruled Tibet. Tibet should enjoy genuine and meaningful autonomy. Now is the time to respect the human rights and religious freedom of the people of Tibet. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 19, 2008 1. We condemn the military action of Chinese government for crushing the peaceful protest by the Tibetan in Tibet on Friday 14th march 2008. 2. We urge and appeal to immediately stop the ongoing brutality act of suppression inside tibet; and also demanding to release all those Tibetan people who were imprisoned during the recent demonstrations. 3. We are also requesting to people from different parts of the world to be careful and don’t come under the false picture, which can mislead the people from other countries by broadcasting altered and fabricated news through their own set-up media, not allowing the international news channels to get hold of the ongoing real situation in Tibet. 4. Our govt. of India and international community to interfere in Tibet solutions. 5. A solution for the issue of Tibet is the interest of India and will solve the security issue of India. Violence is not a solution for the genuine peace; we condemned their brutal action against the Tibetan people. 6. Out govt. should allow the ongoing peace march to Tibet. 7. Our govt. should support Tibet’s rightful and nonviolent struggle to accomplish their goal to return to their own motherland. 8. We also request all the International community to give medical facility and aid to those who are fatally and seriously injured in the recent demonstrations in Tibet since all the hospitals are closed except the chinese army hospitals. Hense we request our Govt. of India to send medical aid to Tibet on the humanitarian ground. Himalayan Buddhist Cultural Association---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
POSTED: Wednesday, March 19, 2008FROM BLOG: Status of Chinese People - News, reports, opinions about China, Chinese people and their living condition The following blog post is from an independent writer and is not connected with Reuters News. The opinions and views expressed herein are those of the author and are not endorsed by Reuters.com. Reuters, via the Guardian, UK, Mar. 18, 2008- BERLIN, March 18 (Reuters) - European Parliament President Hans-Gert Poettering urged politicians to consider boycotting the Beijing Olympic Games to protest against China’s crackdown on demonstrations in Tibet in which dozens may have died. Politicians who had planned to attend the opening ceremony of the Games in August should reconsider, Poettering told German radio, adding he was not ruling out a wider boycott. “It is too early to say how things will end up but one should keep all options open,” Poettering said in an interview on Deutschlandfunk radio on Tuesday. “We must send a signal to Beijing,” he said. Anti-China protests in Lhasa, the biggest in almost two decades, turned ugly on Friday and exiled representatives of Tibet in India have said as many as 80 people died. China’s premier Wen Jiabao has accused Tibet’s exiled spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, of orchestrating riots, a charge he denies. The Dalai Lama, who fled to India in 1959, wants autonomy for Tibet within China but not outright independence. Merkel, along with other western leaders, has called on Beijing to exercise restraint but has refrained from calling for an outright boycott of the Olympic Games. (Writing by Madeline Chambers; Editing by Janet Lawrence) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Italians Show Support for Tibet; Pope Appeals for Dialogue A large banner on the stage in Rome's Campo de' Fiori Square read: "We are all Tibetans." Hundreds of people gathered Wednesday afternoon to show solidarity with the Tibetan people and voice their opposition to the brutal crackdown carried out by the Chinese authorities. Many waved flags from the tiny Himalayan state. Italian politicians from across the political divide attended the demonstration and criticized what they called China's brutal repression just months ahead of the Beijing Olympics. Maurizio Gasparri of the right-wing National Alliance said China applies the death penalty, exploits workers, and massacres people in Tibet and yet we are still talking about holding the Olympic Games in Beijing. He said China should not be part of the international community if it does not respect the rights of Tibetans. Tukten Tenzin, president of the Tibetan community in Italy, also spoke at the gathering. Pope Benedict also raised his voice Wednesday. At the general audience, the pope said he is following events in Tibet with trepidation. He said his heart feels pain for the suffering of so many people. He said violence only aggravates problems. The pope did not mention China specifically. Benedict has made improving relations with Beijing and the normalization of ties, severed in 1951, a major goal of his pontificate. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
US Urges China to Use Restraint in Tibet
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice spoke to her Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi Wednesday evening to discuss the crisis in Tibet. State Department spokesman Sean McCormack says Rice used the 20-minute phone call to restate U.S. policy. "She reiterated our call for restraint on the part of the Chinese government when they are dealing with protesters in these areas. Violence does not serve anybody's purposes," he said. McCormack says Rice also urged her Chinese counterpart to hold talks with the Dalai Lama. "The Chinese government should engage with the Dalai Lama in a dialogue," he said. "He is a man of peace. He is a man of reconciliation. We have been calling for this for sometime. Certainly, now would be as appropriate a time as ever for that dialog to take place." China is accusing the Dalai Lama of orchestrating protests that erupted into riots last week in Tibet's capital, Lhasa, a charge he denies. Tibet's government in exile says about 100 people died in the protests, although Beijing says rioters killed 13 civilians. China is acknowledging that protests have spread from Tibet to neighboring Chinese provinces. The Dalai Lama is offering to discuss the situation in Tibet with Chinese President Hu Jintao. McCormack says so far the Chinese government has not granted the request. "The Chinese government should engage with the Dalai Lama in a dialogue," he said. "He is a man of peace. He is a man of reconciliation. We have been calling for this for sometime. Certainly, now would be as appropriate a time as ever for that dialog to take place." China is accusing the Dalai Lama of orchestrating protests that erupted into riots last week in Tibet's capital, Lhasa, a charge he denies. Tibet's government in exile says about 100 people died in the protests, although Beijing says rioters killed 13 civilians. China is acknowledging that protests have spread from Tibet to neighboring Chinese provinces. China says the spiritual leader must renounce violence and not support independence for Tibet. The Dalai Lama has said repeatedly he only wants autonomy for Tibet under Chinese sovereignty. Some international human rights groups and Tibetan activists are calling for officials and dignitaries to boycott the opening ceremony of the Olympics, to be held in Beijing next August. President Bush is scheduled to attend the games and the White House says his plans have not changed. State Department spokesman Sean McCormack says the Olympics present an opportunity for China. "We view this as a significant international sporting event," said McCormack. "We are going to treat it as such. We would also encourage China to make use of the fact that the world is watching the Olympics and this important international event to put its best face forward, not only during the Olympics, but in the run-up to as well as after the Olympics." McCormack says the United States has requested access to Tibet to make an assessment of what is happening there. McCormack says so far the Chinese government has not granted the request. Secretary Rice Phones China's Foreign Minister Urging Dialogue with the Dalai Lama to Resolve Tibet Problem US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has telephoned China's Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi late on March 19, 2008, repeating her pleas for restraint and calling for a dialogue with the Dalai Lama. "She was able to reiterate very directly with the foreign minister our views urging Chinese restraint in dealing with protestors," Sean McCormack told reporters of the 20-minute call. "Nobody wants to see violence ... So we have strongly urged Chinese restraint in these regards," McCormack said. "She also urged the Chinese government to have a dialogue with the Dalai Lama as we have in the past," McCormack added. "Implicit in what we're saying is that they should engage in dialogue with the Dalai Lama and our view is that he is a man of peace and reconciliation," McCormack said when asked if China should drop preconditions. "We don't really get into this issue of preconditions," the spokesman said. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
John McCain Says Tibet Issue to Receive Top Priority If he becomes President American presidential hopeful John McCain has said that the issue of Tibet would be one of the first things he would take up if he became the president. Addressing the media after a meeting with French President Nicolas Sarkozy in Paris on March 21, 2008, McCain is quoted by Reuters as saying, "It's not correct that the people there are being subjected to mistreatment. That is not acceptable conduct from a world power, which China is." According to Reuters, "McCain said he did not discuss the Tibet issue in his meeting with Sarkozy but said China, which is preparing to host the Olympic Games, risked damaging its international image." "There must be respect for human rights, whether it be in Tibet or whether it be anyplace else in the world," McCain is quoted in the report. "I would hope that the Chinese would announce that they are actively seeking a peaceful resolution to this situation that exists which harms not only the human rights of people but also the image of China in the world," he said. Earlier, after meeting British Prime Minister Gordon Brown in London on March 20, 2008, McCain had this message for the Chinese leaders on developments in Tibet, according to CNN, ""I strongly urge them to respect the rights of the people who are demonstrating there," McCain said. "There's a long history of Chinese treatment of the people in Tibet which is certainly not one that I think the Chinese should be proud of, and I hope that they would quickly respect the human rights of the people there. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Canada Urges Beijing to talk with Dalai Lama
Despite its strongly worded calls for China to stop its crackdown on Tibet, Prime Minister Stephen Harper's government was mum on whether the Prime Minister or his ministers would attend the Summer Olympics in Beijing in August. Mr. Harper issued a statement in which he called upon China to "fully respect human rights and peaceful protest." His Foreign Affairs Minister, Maxime Bernier, followed with a call for Beijing to engage in dialogue with the Dalai Lama - in effect a message to China that the only acceptable way out of the Tibetan showdown is through talks "The most constructive option at the present time, I believe, would be for the government of China to enter into direct dialogue with the Dalai Lama or his designated representatives," Mr. Bernier said in a statement. "Such dialogue may help ensure an already tense situation does not deteriorate into further violence." The message is part of an international effort to press China into talks with the Dalai Lama - officials in some other countries made similar statements yesterday, notably U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. About 600 people demonstrated in Ottawa yesterday against China's crackdown in Tibet, stopping on Parliament Hill where Conservative backbencher Pierre Poilievre read Mr. Harper's statement, which called on China to "show restraint." "As his holiness the Dalai Lama told me when I met him, and as he has been saying recently, his message is one of non-violence and reconciliation and I join him in that call," Mr. Harper said in the statement. Mr. Harper's meeting with the Dalai Lama in Ottawa in November angered China. However, Mr. Harper's government has not broached the issue most dear to China: the Beijing Olympics. The Chinese government has accused a "clique" around the Dalai Lama of organizing violence in Tibet in a bid to sabotage the Olympics. Groups around the world, including the Canada Tibet Committee, have called for political leaders to skip the Olympics to show disapproval. The White House said yesterday that U.S. President George W. Bush will not cancel his visit to the Olympics because of the Tibet crisis, arguing the event should be more about athletics than politics, and that the event would draw attention to China and its record. Unlike other people, "he's able to speak very frankly to the Chinese president or the Russian president or whoever it might be," spokeswoman Dana Perino told reporters, recalling that Mr. Bush has said previously he wants to meet with Chinese President Hu Jintao. Mr. Harper's spokesman, Sandra Buckler, said the Prime Minister has not yet decided whether he will attend. "We're looking at the situation closely," said another spokesman for Mr. Harper, Dimitri Soudas. Wayne Marston, the NDP human-rights critic, said his party's caucus will meet in about two weeks to decide if its MPs should avoid the Games. The Liberals said the question was "premature" and foreign-affairs critic Bob Rae also called for dialogue. Adam van Koeverden, a Canadian Olympic gold and bronze medalist in the kayak singles, said athletes are caught in the middle of a tug-of-wa |
Sunday 06th of April 2008
SENATORS BOXER, BROWN AND SNOWE LEAD BIPARTISAN GROUP OF 27 SENATORS IN CALLING ON CHINA TO RESOLVE CRISIS IN TIBET, MEET DIRECTLY WITH THE DALAI LAMA
Boxer said, “I am deeply concerned about the crisis and violence in Tibet – it is in the interest of all involved that we move quickly to restore peace in the region. But
President Bush called President Hu Jintao of China today. The President raised his concerns about the situation in Tibet and encouraged the Chinese government to engage in substantive dialogue with the Dalai Lama's representatives and to allow access for journalists and diplomats. On Taiwan, the President said that this weekend's election
Barack Obama is the first presidential candidate to put out a 
OTTAWA, March 21: Canada yesterday urged the Chinese government to start talks on Tibet with the Dalai Lama, the Buddhist leader-in-exile who Beijing has long viewed as a subversive force.