
Antwerp, 14 June 2025: The Regional Domey Association of Belgium organised a special event in Antwerp to celebrate the 90th birthday of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama.
The program began with the traditional offering of khatags (ceremonial scarves) to the portrait of His Holiness, followed by the serving of sweet rice and Tibetan butter tea. Attendees then stood for the Tibetan national anthem and observed a minute of silence in solemn tribute to all Tibetans who have sacrificed their lives for the cause of Tibet and its people.
Jigmey, the President of the Regional Domey Association, presented the annual report and underscored the importance of unity and preserving the Tibetan language.
Dhundup Gyalpo, Tibetan Liaison Officer for Europe from the Office of Tibet in Brussels, attended the function as the chief guest. In his address, he highlighted the Kashag of the Central Tibetan Administration’s declaration of 2025 as the “Year of Compassion.” He extended warm greetings to all present and spoke on the enduring relevance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Four Principal Commitments.
Gyalpo emphasised the critical importance of preserving Tibetan culture—especially the Tibetan language—which he described as a moral responsibility for every Tibetan during these challenging times. He further encouraged the deep embrace of His Holiness’s teachings on compassion, forgiveness, tolerance, contentment, and self-discipline for the benefit of individuals, communities, and the world at large.
Paying heartfelt tribute to His Holiness’s lifelong contributions to peace, universal responsibility, and environmental awareness, Gyalpo called for these core values to be widely understood and practised by all Tibetans. He concluded his speech with prayers for His Holiness’s good health, long life, and the continued global spread of his virtuous activities.
As a gesture of encouragement, the Regional Dhomey Association of Belgium presented certificates of appreciation and a scarf to all graduated students of Dhomey, which was presented by the chief guest.
Following the formal program, a vibrant cultural celebration took place, hosted by three young anchors in traditional Tibetan dress. The cultural program featured songs and dances primarily performed by children from Dhomey communities in Antwerp, Brussels, Ostend, Leuven, Bruges, and Ghent.
The event concluded with words of thanks from Vice President Tseten, followed by a vegetarian dinner served to all attendees.
-Report filed by Bureau du Tibet, Brussels







