Statement by Lodi Gyari, Special Envoy of His Holiness the Dalai Lama
Washington, DC, 28 May, 2001
His Holiness the Dalai Lama was warmly received by President George W. Bush and other senior members of his Administration, including Secretary of State Colin Powell and National Security Advisor Condoleeza Rice during his three day visit to Washington D.C.
His Holiness had the opportunity to personally share with President Bush his decades-long efforts to resolve the Tibet issue through dialogue with the Chinese leadership. He also apprised the President, Secretary of State and National Security Advisor about the current situation in Tibet and stressed the dangerous consequences to the Tibetan identity if China’s policies in Tibet continue unchanged.
His Holiness shared his consistent views on the importance of good relations between the United States and China, the need for the United States to maintain a principled foreign policy, and the geopolitical importance of Tibet.
President Bush assured His Holiness that he would try to find new ways to help encourage the Chinese government to respond to his initiative for dialogue. The Bush Administration also said it would commit moral and material support to help preserve Tibet’s unique linguistic, cultural and religious identity. Members of the Bush Administration informed His Holiness about their deep commitment to promote religious freedom.
His Holiness also met with the newly appointed Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues, Paula Dobriansky, with whom he exchanged views on ways to promote dialogue on Tibet.
His Holiness was very encouraged by the sincere interest and concern shown by the President, Secretary Powell and other Administration officials.
His Holiness takes the opportunity to thank the United States government and people for their sympathy and support to the Tibetan people.