Sikyong Penpa Tsering addressing the members of Tibetan community in Antwerp.
Brussels: In the early afternoon of Sunday, 4 February 2024, Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration arrived at Brussels airport. He was received at the gate by Representative Rigzin Genkhang and was accorded a warm welcome with traditional Chemar Changbhue (butter-flour and first pouring of chang) and khatags by the Presidents of the Tibetan Community, other Tibetan associations and the general public who had been eagerly waiting for the Tibetan political leader.
Thereafter, Sikyong was escorted to his hotel in a motorcade accompanied by a police escort where he was welcomed by a crowd with Chemar Changbhue and Tashi Shoelpa (good luck dance) organised by the Tibetan Community.
In the late after-noon, Sikyong Penpa Tsering arrived at the port city of Antwerp where the majority of Tibetans live. There, he interacted with Tibetan youth. During the hour-long interaction, Sikyong emphasised the historical status of Tibet, its rich cultural heritage, ecological significance and the current situation in Tibet. He further reminded the younger generation of their responsibility of taking the Tibetan freedom struggle forward.
In the evening, Sikyong addressed a packed audience of Tibetans who had travelled from different parts of Belgium. He spoke at length on the priorities of the Central Tibetan Administration followed by a Q&A session.
The evening concluded with dinner reception in honour of Sikyong’s visit and a cultural performance by the Lhakar group and students from the Sherab Nangjey Weekend Tibetan School.
After successfully concluding his official visit, Sikyong Penpa Tsering departed Brussels for India on Monday, 5 February morning.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering was accompanied by Representative Genkhang and her staff during the whole visit.
-Report filed by Office of Tibet, Brussels
Local police escorting Sikyong Penpa Tsering to his hotel in Brussels upon arrival.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering greeting the Tashi Shoepa performers.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering and Representative Genkhang with the Tibetan youth.
