The Information Secretary of the Central Tibetan Administration, T.G Arya addressed a press briefing today clarifying the Administration’s stance on the coronavirus outbreak and the affecting impacts on some events caused by the epidemic. He expressed sadness on the worsening situation in China and in some other countries and said that the Administration hopes and pray that the situation improves soon and the people are relieved of the suffering at the earliest.

He clarified that the Administration will be observing the upcoming March 10 Tibetan Uprising Day and an official program will be held in Dharamshala as scheduled in the honor and remembrance of the Tibetan martyrs who revolted against the illegal occupation of Tibet by China in 1959. He urged the Tibetans across the world to observe this significant national event in their capacities given the situation of the outbreak of coronavirus, however, he advised safety measures and health guidelines to be followed strictly.

“Given the coronavirus situation, Tibetans across the world should observe the event according to the situation in the respective regions and countries. Rules and guidelines issued by the respective regional authorities must be followed and those having symptoms of flu should refrain from participation in the public gathering despite your well-intentioned motive”, said Secretary Arya and urged the organisers to ensure the safety of all the participants.

Finally, he requested all the Tibetans to take care and cooperate with the local authorities in containing the epidemic disease.

He then addressed the postponement of CTA’s ‘Global Summit of International Tibetan Associations’ and said, “The Global Summit scheduled to be held on April 2-4 has now been postponed indefinitely amid the ongoing COVID-19 epidemic”. However, he clarified that the CTA’s Five Fifty Youth Forum scheduled to be held in the month of August will take place as planned and called for maximum youth participation.