THE TASK FORCE MEETING HELD

The recent changes in the political leadership of the Tibetan people have been historic. But the central task of the Tibetan movement to restore basic freedoms and dignity of the Tibetan people remains unchanged. As a result I have consistently stated that one of my foremost priorities as the Kalon Tripa is to make every possible effort to find a peaceful and negotiated resolution to the issue of Tibet. Even during my election campaign I made clear my commitment to His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Middle-Way Approach and to the ongoing dialogue process re-started in 2002.

In line with this spirit I met on 9 October 2011 the two envoys of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Mr. Lodi G. Gyari and Mr. Kelsang Gyaltsen, who have to date conducted talks with the representatives of the Chinese leadership. They gave me a comprehensive briefing on the status of the dialogue process. The Task Force meeting was held the following day during which the status and prospects of the dialogue was discussed in depth.

Obviously the ongoing tragic situation inside Tibet was also a major topic of discussion.

In recent times I have stated on a number of occasions our deep concern over the situation in Tibet. The incidents are a clear indication of the genuine grievances of the Tibetans and their sense of deep resentment and despair over the prevailing conditions in Tibet. It is therefore of the utmost urgency that every possible effort be made to address the underlying root causes of Tibetan grievances and resentment. Consequently, I wish to reiterate my firm commitment in finding a mutually acceptable solution in the spirit of the Middle-Way Approach. I have therefore asked the two envoys of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to make efforts to resume the dialogue at the earliest convenience.


Dr. Lobsang Sangay

KALON TRIPA