Brussels, 16 November 2016: Representative Tashi Phuntsok and EU Advocacy Officer Rigzin Choedon Genkhang met with MEP Panzeri and his staff at the European Parliament yesterday. Mr Panzeri is an Italian Member of the European Parliament from the Socialists and Democrats. The meeting is significant not only to expand and strengthen Tibetan network in the European Parliament but also to increase and obtain stronger support from MEPs of the Socialist groups.

Mr Panzeri has extended his support in recent activities of the Office, especially in regard to the upcoming Exchange of Views in the Subcommittee on Human Rights of the European Parliament. This program in the European Parliament will take place because of the support of the major political groups.

Representative Tashi Phuntsok expressed his gratitude to Mr Panzeri for having supported our efforts in the European Parliament and also drew his attention to the critical situation in Tibet. The need for stronger support from the European Union and the Parliament was stressed in detail. Mr Panzeri, while acknowledging the massive Chinese influence around the world today, expressed his continued support for Tibet and ensured that he would strengthen his network for Tibet in his group in the European Parliament.

Mr Panzeri’s Senior Advisor on Foreign Affairs and Human Rights, Ms Bataille, his Assistant Mr Giorgi and his intern Ms Cova joined in the meeting.

-Report filed by Office of Tibet, Brussels-