Dharamsala, 23 December. Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama has written a letter to Ujra Zeya congratulating him on being appointed as the US Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues.
She expressed the hope that she would be able to make a significant contribution in improving the condition of the Tibetan people.
In his letter, the Dalai Lama expressed his gratitude for the US support, writing, “A sustained and persistent US support has been a source of great encouragement to Tibetans in our peaceful struggle for freedom and dignity.”
Although I have delegated political authority to an elected Tibetan leadership, I am concerned about the Tibetan identity, the existence of our distinctive culture and heritage, and the protection of Tibet’s fragile natural environment. I’m glad to see that you mentioned in your first comment that these will be your priorities.
He added, as you know, there has been widespread international interest and support in the peaceful struggle of the Tibetan people, who have so much potential to contribute to the world in a rich culture of non-violence and compassion. I believe that in the long run only the power of truth will prevail.
I look forward to meeting you and exchanging views on issues that may benefit from your support and initiative, said the Tibetan spiritual leader. I am sure you will be in close contact with our elected Tibetan leadership.
He said he was encouraged to see that in addition to coordinating Tibetan issues, the concern for democracy is also part of Zea’s portfolio and the US recently held a democracy summit.
He concluded his remarks by saying, “I firmly believe that the United States can play a leadership role in promoting awareness of the core values of democracy, liberty, and human rights.”
Let us tell you that the Biden administration has assigned the responsibility of US Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues to Under Secretary Ujra Zeya.
Notably, the Biden administration has tasked Indian-origin diplomat Azra Zia to advance concrete talks between China and the Dalai Lama or his representatives for an agreement on Tibet. She will now handle this responsibility as well as being the Under Secretary for Civil Defense, Democracy and Human Rights.
China is accused of suppressing cultural and religious freedom in Tibet, but China denies these allegations. The Tibet issue has not been discussed in recent years between representatives of China and the Dalai Lama.
On the other hand, Chinese President Xi Jinping has adopted a tough policy to increase security controls on Tibet since taking office in 2013.
According to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, I have designated Ujra Zeya, Under Secretary of State for Civil Defense, Democracy and Human Rights, to serve simultaneously as the United States Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues. This is an important role, which she will take effect immediately.
She said, she will also continue to serve as the Under Secretary for Civil Defense, Democracy and Human Rights, for which she was sworn in on July 14, 2021.
Blinken said in a statement that Zeya will coordinate US government policies, programs and projects related to Tibetan issues, in line with the Tibetan Policy Act of 2002, as amended by the Tibetan Policy and Support Act of 2020.
(IANS)
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