Dharamshala: The Swiss-Tibetan Friendship Society (GSTF) has written a letter, undersigned by its President, Thomas Buchli, and Vice President, Nathalie Bravaccini, congratulating Sikyong Penpa Tsering on his re-election to a second term. The letter also extends congratulations to the newly appointed Kalons of the 17th Kashag.

The letter outlines GSTF’s long-standing commitment to supporting the rights of the Tibetan people since its establishment in 1983 through advocacy for human rights, non-violent action, and the preservation of Tibetan culture.

It highlights GSTF’s political work in Switzerland, including its collaboration with the Parliamentary Group for Tibet (PGT), the preparation of parliamentary initiatives, and the organisation of petitions aimed at promoting Tibetan rights. The letter also emphasises the association’s cooperation with the Office of Tibet in Geneva, Tibetan communities, and non-governmental organisations to raise awareness about the situation in Tibet and Chinese government policies. Particular attention is drawn to a recent Swiss government report on the transnational repression of Tibetans and Uyghurs in Switzerland, which GSTF helped bring about.

Established in April 1983, GSTF has grown to become Switzerland’s largest non-governmental organisation dedicated to Tibet, with approximately 1,500 members. The society is organised into regional sections, each governed by a board elected by its members.