Dharamshala: Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the newly appointed Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Honourable Andy Burnham, expressing hope that the longstanding ties between Tibet and Britain will continue to deepen under the new leadership.

In his congratulatory letter, Sikyong wrote, “On behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration and the Tibetan people, I extend our heartfelt congratulations on your appointment as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.” Reflecting on the historical relationship between the two peoples, Sikyong noted that “the relationship between Britain and Tibet stretches back through decades of British political officers, traders, and scholars who came to know Tibet’s institutions, language, and government directly.”

Sikyong further highlighted Britain’s unique historical connection with Tibet, stating that “Britain was among the first nations to engage Tibet as a distinct polity conducting its own affairs,” and that this history has provided the country with “a living institutional memory of Tibet prior to its invasion by China.”

Expressing hope for continued British engagement on Tibet, Sikyong wrote, “It is in this spirit that we look to your leadership with high hopes,” and emphasised that Britain’s international influence and commitment to human rights give it “a credible voice on the world stage.” Sikyong expressed the hope that the United Kingdom would continue to support a fair understanding of Tibet’s history and contribute to broader international awareness of the Tibetan people’s aspirations.

Sikyong added, “Should your government lend that voice to a fair telling of Tibet’s story, anchoring broader European support for our cause, it would mean the world to Tibetans and be received everywhere with immense admiration and gratitude.”

Concluding the letter, Sikyong conveyed his sincere wishes for the Prime Minister’s success and expressed hope that “in charting Britain’s course, you will also help steer the world towards greater justice and compassion” while ensuring that “the enduring friendship between our people will continue to flourish under your able leadership.”