Berlin: The President of the Central Tibetan Administration Dr Lobsang Sangay testified at the human rights subcommittee of the German Parliament yesterday. MP Gyde Jensen, the Chairwoman of the human rights committee chaired the hearing.
Citing the Freedom House Index that listed Tibet as the second least free country after Syria for two consecutive years in 2016 and 2017, Dr Sangay said the present grave situation prevalent in Tibet that has worsened over the years replicates the cultural revolution. Debunking China’s claim that Tibetans are content in Tibet, Dr Sangay speaking of the 152 Tibetans who have self-immolated asked why Tibetans are resorting to burning themselves alive and calling for freedom in Tibet, if they are content as China claims, he added.
The president also spoke of the environmental significance of Tibet, the destruction of which would have repercussions beyond Tibet. He also shared the official policy of the CTA , that is Middle Way Approach and expressed it as the “only viable solution to the Sino-Tibet issue.”
Dr Sangay also attended the first meeting of the newly formed Tibet Interest Group (TIG) meeting at the German Parliament. The meeting was chaired by MEP Michael Brand and attended by members of the European parliament along with parliamentary assistants. Michael Brand welcoming the president voiced his support for the Middle Way Approach.
The President’s last day Berlin engagement also saw live interview with Deustche Welle TV, Germany’s international broadcaster.
– Report filed by Tenzin Lhakmon, Communication Officer, Sikyong’s office –