BRUSSELS: The Office of Tibet Brussels hosted the 82nd birthday reception of His Holiness the Dalai Lama yesterday evening at Concert Noble, a venue close by to the European Parliament. The celebration was organized on an early date taking into consideration the calendar of the European Parliament. On most other days the Parliament is in office at Strasbourg, in France.
Attended by over 10 MEPs, 15 or more representatives of MEPs or Assistants, Embassy Officials, Tibet Supporters and Tibetan community representatives – a total of 60 guests made the event dignified and lively.
After the invocation prayer lead by Metok Rinpoche, Lama Zeupa and members of his center, representative Tashi Phuntsok made a brief introductory speech. Invoking His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s three commitments, His Holiness’ strong support for the EU vision, he called for the potential of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to contribute to the universal peace and harmony to tapped into. International political uncertainty and shifting alliances around the world are major of causes of concern for an unsettled world.
MEP Thomas Mann, President of Tibet Interest Group (TIG) gave a brief summary of TIG’s advocacy and activities in the European Parliament. He reiterated that the European Parliament would continue to be the voice for Tibet.
Commenting on the reception, MEP Molly Scott-Cato said, “I have been to many receptions. This is the most dignified and solemn event that I have the honor to be present in”.
The Representatives speech “was the best that I have heard in so many years I have been present,” said Mr Carlo Luyckx, a long-time and trusted friend of the Office of Tibet.
Former Belgian Ambassador to India, Mr Pierre Vaesen, wished His Holiness the Dalai Lama a long life and progress on the issue of Tibet around the world.
– Report filed by Office of Tibet, Brussels –
