Czech President extends support to Dalai Lama’s struggle for religious freedom

During his visit to Ladakh, Czech Republic President Petr Pavel said he supports the Buddhist spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, for seeking the freedom of religion and language for his people.

While interacting with media, Pavel said, “He (Dalai Lama) is not calling for an independent Tibet. He understands the middle way very well, and he only wants freedom of religion, freedom of expression and freedom of language for his people. And I think we should all support that.”

“For me, it’s a great pleasure and honour to visit the Dalai Lama. He visited my country 11 times, so it’s a great pleasure to reciprocate at least once,” said the Czech President.

He also expressed support for the Central Tibetan Administration’s efforts for a swift resolution of the Tibet-China conflict through a mutually beneficial approach, envisioned by the Dalai Lama.

Pavel said, “We came from the Czech Republic, a country so distant in the centre of Europe. A country so different in culture, history and even the present. But what we have in common is that we are all human beings who want to live decent lives and prepare the best possible future for our children.”

“We came to meet His Holiness, the Dalai Lama, to show him our support for his cause. The freedom to use your language, practice your religion and preserve your culture may seem luxurious, but is a basic right,” he added.

The leadership of the Central Tibetan Administration received the Czech President. The high-level Czech delegation also visited Thiksey Monastery, while Pavel received a special audience with the Dalai Lama at Shiwa Tsel Phodrang in Leh.

As a gesture to show his support for Tibetans, Pavel also visited the Sonamling Tibetan Settlement in Leh and attended a gathering, showcasing cultural performances at the Sonamling Tibetan Community Hall.

J & K