At the beginning of the press conference, Namgyal Tsewang, Additional Secretary of the Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR), gave a brief introduction of the delegation members while expressing gratitude for their presence in the hall.

During the press conference, MP Juku Kalle Raid, who also serves as a member of Estonia’s Foreign Affairs Committee, reiterated Estonia’s strong stance on Tibet. He called on the international community to be more vocal in countering China’s narrative. He further emphasised the significance of his role in dealing with global diplomatic matters. “As Estonia is a member of the European Union, in a way, I also represent a bit of the European Union here,” he stated.

He expressed disappointment over the absence of more parliamentary delegations from the free world, pointing out the hesitation caused by China’s so-called ‘One China Policy.’ He asserted that the main issue is the fear of China’s policy.

MP Juku Kalle Raid shared his experience of receiving official diplomatic protests from China following his advocacy for Tibet. “After I return home, the Chinese Embassy and their Ministry of Foreign Affairs send me letters, which I call ‘love letters’—official harsh notes denying Tibet’s existence or its occupation,” he revealed. However, he firmly rejected such claims, stating, “Of course, we disagree. There is Tibet, and Tibet is occupied.”

He further stressed the need for the international community, especially Europe, to amplify their voices on Tibet. “This is the main agenda we are repeating in the free world, in Europe, but altogether, we must be louder,” he urged.

The press conference was part of the high-level visit by delegations from Estonia and Slovakia, demonstrating their continued support for Tibet and its struggle.

Following this, Andrej Kiska, the former President of Slovakia, reaffirmed his solidarity with Tibet and urged the world to speak up. He shared his deep personal connection with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and his long-standing support for Tibet and its people. Reflecting on his journey, he highlighted the heartfelt impact of His Holiness’s teachings on his life, his understanding of Tibet’s rich history, and the ongoing struggle.

“I think you may have heard my personal story outside, so I will briefly repeat it,” Andrej Kiska said. “Thanks to His Holiness and His teachings, I received so much. He helped me find my purpose in life and also helped me understand what Tibet is about—its history, its culture, its beautiful country, but also its suffering.”

Kiska recalled his meeting with His Holiness nearly 16 years ago in Bratislava (the capital of Slovakia), where they took a photograph together. An image he continues to carry in his wallet as a symbol of inspiration. “His Holiness is always with me, all my life,” he said, revealing how His Holiness had even worn a pin of Good Angel (Dobry anjel, translated from Slovak as Good Angel), a charity Kiska founded to help children battling cancer. “At that time, thanks to His Holiness’s teachings, I understood that the main purpose of life should be helping others,” he added.

He recounted a powerful moment when His Holiness personally contributed to the Good Angel Foundation. “When His Holiness visited our country, He said, ‘I want to help your children too.’ During a conference in Prague, His Holiness mentioned that He was expecting some financial assistance from the Czech Republic and told them to transfer it to our charity. His Holiness is also a Good Angel for our children in Slovakia,” former Slovakian President Kiska shared.

“Everything I have read about Tibetans is true. I have met so many wonderful people—people who smile, who show real love and empathy, yet who have suffered so much,” he said. His voice wavered as he recalled the ultimate sacrifices made by Tibetans for their freedom. “I still have tears in my eyes remembering the 158 people who set themselves on fire for the freedom of Tibet and hope for His Holiness to have a chance to return home.”

Echoing the words of his fellow delegate, Estonian MP Juku Kalle Raid, former Slovakian President Kiska urged the international community to speak out against the injustice faced by Tibetans. “We have to speak loudly about what is happening. We have to help the world recognise the reality of Tibet’s struggle,” he emphasised.

Concluding his message with a heartfelt appeal to Tibetans, he said, “Please, stay true to your values—compassion, love, and empathy. The world stands with you. You are not alone.”

Both delegation leaders stressed the need for the international community, particularly in Europe, to take a stronger stance on Tibet and counter China’s attempts to suppress the truth. They reassured Tibetans that they are not alone in their struggle and that voices of support continue to grow in the free world.

The press conference concluded with a Q&A session, where members of the press asked the visiting dignitaries about their perspectives on the current geopolitical situation, the role of European nations in supporting Tibet, and their message to Tibetans in exile. The delegation responded with strong reaffirmations of their commitment to advocating for Tibet on the international stage.