Canberra, Australia: Kyabje Kundeling Rinpoche participated in the Tibet Lobby Day held on 29 June 2026 at the Australian Parliament. Rinpoche was accompanied by Representative Karma Singey, Member of Tibetan Parliament in Exile Kalsang Tsering, Dr. Zoe Bedford of the Australia Tibet Council, along with other participants of the Tibet Lobby Day.

During a media briefing held on the morning of the Lobby Day, Rinpoche spoke about the human rights situation and religious freedom in Tibet. He highlighted the continued disappearance of the 11th Panchen Lama, who was recognised by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and expressed concern over the Chinese government’s interference in Tibetan religious affairs, particularly regarding the recognition of the future reincarnation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Rinpoche said, “The recognition of the reincarnation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama is a matter of Tibetan Buddhist faith and religious tradition. His Holiness has issued clear guidance regarding the future of the institution of the Dalai Lama, in which he reiterated that the Gaden Phodrang Trust has the sole authority to recognise the future reincarnation.”

Rinpoche further said, “Any attempt by the Chinese government to appoint or recognise the future Dalai Lama constitutes unlawful interference in religious affairs and a violation of the Tibetan people’s right to freedom of religion and belief.”

Later, Rinpoche attended a reception hosted by the Australian Parliamentary Friendship Group for Tibet in honour of his visit. The reception was attended by the Hon. Deputy Speaker Sharon Claydon, members of the Parliamentary Friendship Group for Tibet, parliamentarians, and invited guests.

During the reception, Rinpoche expressed his gratitude for Australia’s longstanding support for Tibet and thanked members of Parliament and supporters for their continued commitment to the Tibetan cause. Rinpoche also appealed for Australia’s continued engagement in promoting human rights, protecting religious freedom, and supporting a peaceful resolution to the Tibet-China conflict.

This year’s Tibet Lobby Day focused on urging the Australian Government to reject and call for the repeal of China’s so-called “Ethnic Unity Law” and to support the protection of Tibetan culture, language, and identity. During the Lobby Day, participants met with more than 30 Australian parliamentarians to raise awareness about the challenges facing Tibetans and advocate for human rights and religious freedom.

– Report filed by Office of Tibet, Canberra