Sikyong Penpa Tsering addressing the Tibetan residents of Kalimpong at Mani Lhakhang. Photo / Lobsang Dolkar / bod.asia

Dharamshala: As part of his ongoing official visits to Tibetan settlements in exile, Sikyong Penpa Tsering visited Tibetan establishments in Kalimpong Tibetan settlement on 8 November 2024.

Sikyong kicked off his day-long engagement with visitations to Sed-Gyued Monastery and Zhekar Choede Monastery, followed by an address at the Sambhota Tibetan School, Kalimpong.

After a brief introductory opening by the school’s Principal, Tsering Tsomo, Sikyong advised students to learn about Tibet’s past histories and current status to reconnect themselves with the Tibet cause. Having said that, Sikyong shared his insights about the geopolitical status of the Tibetan plateau and the major roles that Tibet’s river system plays in the livelihoods of riparian Asian communities. Sikyong further spoke about the environmental challenges that have disturbed the Tibetan plateau’s fragile ecosystem.

Sikyong also held a Q&A session with the student before wrapping up his address.

Thereafter, Sikyong headed to Gaden Tharpa Choeling and Tsechen Thinley Dhargyeling monastery to pay obeisance. At the same time, he also toured the monastery’s museum.

Later that afternoon, Sikyong visited the local Tibetan Mentseekhang branch, the local Tibetan Old Age Home, and the Kalimpong Tibetan Opera Association before addressing the gathering of around 200 Tibetan residents at the Mani Lhakhang.

In his address, Sikyong Penpa Tsering reflected on the Tibetan community’s journey into exile, highlighting the efforts of the older generation and detailing how His Holiness the Dalai Lama, with the assistance from Indian Prime Minister Nehru, established Tibetan settlements and schools in India. He also discussed how His Holiness’ travels to Asia in 1967 and Europe in 1973 led to the development of the Middle Way Approach, a concept rooted in concerns for Tibet’s survival and cultural preservation, particularly following the destruction wrought by China’s Cultural Revolution.

The Sikyong then traced the evolution of the Middle Way, noting His Holiness’s presentation of the Five-Point Peace Plan to the U.S. Congress in 1979, with an emphasis on Sino-Tibetan dialogue. In 1988, His Holiness further articulated this approach during his address to the European Parliament, which became a turning point for the Tibetan exile community. The Sikyong emphasised that the Middle Way Approach continues to guide the community’s efforts toward a peaceful resolution, aligned with His Holiness’ vision for Tibet’s future.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering emphasised the importance of Tibetans understanding their history and staying informed about the critical situation in Tibet, where increasing Chinese restrictions have strained family relationships and reduced the number of Tibetans leaving for exile since 2008. This has had a negative impact on Tibetan monasteries and schools in the diaspora. He also expressed concern about the broader geopolitical context, noting China’s weakened economic position post-pandemic and rising youth unemployment, which could present opportunities for Tibet’s advocacy.

The Sikyong highlighted the 16th Kashag’s strategy of engaging with global allies, including Uyghurs, Southern Mongolians, Hong Kong activists, Chinese pro-democrats, and Taiwanese, to strengthen Tibet’s international appeal. He stressed that advocating for Tibet in isolation is ineffective, and a united front attracts more global attention. Finally, he warned that without a deep understanding of their history, Tibetans risk losing their cultural identity and the legacy of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s efforts, urging the community to prioritise this knowledge for future generations.