Dharamshala: Sikyong Penpa Tsering addressed members of the Tibetan community in Ontario during his official visit to Toronto on 18 May 2025.
The gathering began with a welcome address and a brief report presented by President of the Tibetan Association Sonam Lankar, followed by remarks from Representative Namgyal Choedup. Both speakers conveyed their deep appreciation for Sikyong’s steadfast leadership and his continued advocacy for the Tibetan cause on the international stage.
In his keynote address, Sikyong Penpa Tsering highlighted the significance of the forthcoming 90th birth anniversary of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. He urged Tibetans worldwide to actively participate in commemorating this milestone and to contribute meaningfully to initiatives honouring His Holiness’s legacy.
Addressing the issue of His Holiness’s reincarnation, Sikyong referenced the 2011 statement wherein His Holiness outlined the traditional procedures for identifying his successor and unequivocally rejected any candidate appointed by the Chinese government as illegitimate. He further informed the audience that a major conference involving the heads and representatives of Tibetan religious traditions will be convened in July this year. It is anticipated that this gathering, held in consultation with His Holiness, will provide further clarity on the matter.
Sikyong also spoke about the 16th Kashag’s efforts to amplify the four principal commitments of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. He noted that the Kashag had issued formal statements over the past year to underline the continued relevance of these commitments. Sikyong elaborated on each of the four commitments, underscoring their importance not only for the Tibetan people but also for the global community at large.
Sikyong further remarked on the increasing international focus on the Tibetan issue, citing a rise in global media coverage and reports addressing the Tibet-China conflict. He emphasised the Central Tibetan Administration’s (CTA) ongoing efforts to engage international stakeholders through diplomatic channels and media outreach, aimed at garnering broader support for the Tibetan cause.
Highlighting legislative developments in the United States, Sikyong referred to the passage of the Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act (Tibet Resolve Act). The Act reaffirms the historical independence of Tibet and reinforces the U.S. policy supporting the Tibetan people’s right to self-determination. He also referenced a letter from the U.S. Secretary of State, received on the occasion of the 66th Tibetan National Uprising Day (10 March), which reiterated the United States government’s enduring commitment to the Tibetan cause.
Sikyong then provided updates on the key initiatives and programmes of the 16th Kashag in promoting continued sustenance of Tibetan settlements and exile administration as well as furthering the Tibetan freedom struggle.
Additionally, Sikyong drew attention to a demographic shift within the Tibetan exile community, observing a steady migration of Tibetans to Western countries, resulting in a declining population in India. He expressed concern over the implications of this trend, particularly the potential impact on Tibetan schools. He emphasised the urgent need for strategic planning to preserve Tibetan language and cultural heritage for future generations.
The event concluded with an engaging interactive Q&A session.
