Dharamshala: Sikyong Penpa Tsering received a virtual audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama on 2 June as he marked his first week in office.
In an hour-long meeting, His Holiness the Dalai Lama spoke at length, emphasising the vital need of preserving and strengthening the democratic values that are deeply embedded in the Tibetan system of governance while noting that he has entirely and solely relinquished that responsibility and authority on the democratically elected leader of the Tibetan people.
He remarked that it is the responsibility of the elected leadership to steer the Tibetan cause and lead the Tibetan people through imminent challenges and must do so in total compliance with the democratic principles and practices.
Offering his gratitude for granting the special audience, Sikyong Penpa Tsering apprised His Holiness with the detailed account of immediate steps he’s undertaken in the last seven days in addressing the more urgent issues, including the COVID-19 crisis.
He mentioned the new guidelines and policy issued on tackling the COVID-19 in the Tibetan communities. In addition, Sikyong apprised His Holiness of his efforts and commitment to finding a lasting solution for the Sino-Tibet conflict through a non-violent approach espoused by His Holiness. Similarly, Sikyong spoke on the grassroots initiatives to advancing the global advocacy efforts for Tibet, strengthening democratic polity, empowering the youth and, meanwhile, strengthening Tibetan unity and solidarity.
After thoroughly noting the leadership commitments of Sikyong, His Holiness expressed appreciation to Sikyong’s pursuits and offered him good wishes and blessing as he charges ahead with the responsibility as the Sikyong of the 16th Kashag.