Dharamshala: Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration today expressed his deep sadness and condolences at the demise of US Senator Robert Dole, a longtime friend of Tibet and His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Senator Robert Dole who was a former US Presidential candidate and one of the longest-serving US Congressman, passed away on 5 December after a prolonged battle with cancer.
In his condolence letter addressed to Elizabeth Dole, wife of Senator Robert Dole, Sikyong wrote:
“With deep sadness, I on behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration, would like to offer my profound condolences to you on the sad demise of your beloved husband and longtime friend of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people, Senator Robert Dole.”
“In his 36 years of service in the US Congress, Senator Robert Dole has served the American public with grace, humility, and integrity. His life is a testament to resilience, strength and the sheer power of will that has established a deep connection with the American youth of his time.”
“Senator Dole has also been a longtime friend of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has met Senator Dole on many occasions including in September 1992, September 1995, and again in 1997. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has also written to Senator Dole to seek the attention of the US Congress on the atrocities in Tibet during his second stint as US Senate Majority Leader in January 1995.”
“Senator Dole’s personal experience of the sufferings caused by war and the deep friendship that he shared with His Holiness the Dalai Lama has endeared him to the Tibetan people and their sufferings under Chinese occupation. With his demise, Tibetans have lost a dear friend and a stalwart of truth and justice.”
“As we mourn the loss of Senator Dole, his memory will always remain in the hearts and minds of the Tibetan people, and will serve as an inspiration to face the challenges ahead.”