Brussels, 21 September 2025: Over 70 cyclists took part in a peace and compassion rally through the streets of Brussels to commemorate the Year of Compassion and the 90th Birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The cycle rally was held on the occasion of Car-Free Sunday in Brussels, and was jointly organised by the Office of Tibet, Brussels and the Belgium Ghoton Organising Committee.

The rally began at Gare du Midi, Brussels, and passed through major city routes including De Brouckere, Brussels Central Station, Rogier and the EU quarter, before concluding at the Parc du Cinquantenaire, a 19th century landmark built to celebrate Belgium’s 50th independence.

The purpose of Car-Free Sunday in Brussels is multi-faceted, focusing on environmental, social, and mobility goals. The cycle rally aligned perfectly with these goals while also celebrating peace and compassion.

In keeping with the spirit of the day, cyclists also distributed pamphlets carrying His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s universal message of peace and compassion, protection of the environment, and sharing his timeless values with the wider public. All the participants are gifted T-shirts dedicated to the Year of Compassion, featuring His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s timeless message on the back.

At the starting point, in her address Rigzin Genkhang, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama warmly welcomed the participants and applauded their enthusiastic support for the important event, which is part of the global observance of the Year of Compassion in honor of His Holiness’ 90th birthday. She urged the participants to be mindful of their safety while on the road.

The Ghoton Organizing Committee provided water to the participants at mid-point of the rally and served light refreshment, including traditional Tibetan butter and sweet tea, at the final point adding a warm cultural touch to the event.

At the closing ceremony, EU Advocacy Officer Tenzin Phuntsok delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the dedication of participants, volunteers, and organizers who made the rally a success. Secretary Thinley Wangdue, Tibetan Liaison Officer Dhundup Gyalpo and Accountant Tenzin Nordhen also participated in the rally.

The day’s event not only underscored Tibetans’ commitment to His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s message of compassion and environmental stewardship but also showcased the community’s active engagement in promoting peace, harmony, and wellbeing within the broader European society.

Cyclists included participants from various Tibetan and advocacy organisations, namely: Belgium U-Tsang Cholka, Belgium Dhomey Cholka, Regional Tibetan Women’s Association, Belgium Middle Way Association, Students for a Free Tibet (SFT), VTAG, and ICT Brussels.

-Report filed by Office of Tibet, Brussels