Dharamshala: On 25 April 2024, delegates from the Estonian Parliament and Tibet Support Group participating in the official ceremony of the 35th birthday of His Serenity the 11th Panchen Lama Gedun Choekyi Nyima came together to hold a joint press conference at Tsuglagkhang.
The delegation: Juku Kalle Raid, member of Estonian Parliament and Estonia’s Foreign Affairs Commission; Jenn Polluaas, Member of Estonian Parliament and its Former Speaker; Tarmo Tamm, Member of Estonian Parliament, and Andres Herkel, Former Estonian MP and Journalist, partook in the press meeting and made an appeal to China, urging for the immediate release of the 11th Panchen Lama, while expressing their unwavering support for the cause of Tibet.
Chair of the Estonian Parliamentary Support Group for Tibet, Juko Kalle Raid, emphasised the significance of this press conference for the Estonian nation and its people. He remarked that His Holiness the Dalai Lama had visited Estonia on three separate occasions, and each time, a significant number of Estonians warmly received Him. The people of Estonia have consistently shown a deep admiration and affection for Tibet, and this enduring sentiment will continue to prevail. Given the resemblance between Tibet and Estonia for having undergone similar experiences of foreign occupation, he added, “Despite the challenging circumstances we find ourselves in, it is imperative that we continue to progress and refrain from regressing or remaining stagnant. The system deems the violation of human rights and the act of forced occupation as illegitimate.”
He further assured his commitment to amplifying voices across European countries with increased conviction and impact to seek European nations’ acknowledgement on the Tibetan people’s self determination. He stressed that China must refrain from meddling in Tibetan affairs to ensure the continued existence of Tibet’s unique heritage.
Following the address of the delegation members, a Q&A session was held with the media representatives discussing the urgent request for China to release the 11th Panchen Lama. MP Juko Kalle Raid responded, “As His Holiness mentioned today (during their private audience with His Holiness), the issue at hand is not just about the Panchen Lama; it is a global matter involving unlawful acts, forced occupation, and the violations of human rights. We are committed to raising awareness on these issues in the European Parliament.”
Additionally, he claimed, “The Upcoming election of the European Parliament is on the horizon. I have the necessary criteria to vote for individuals capable of raising these issues and concerns. It is crucial not only to address the whereabouts of the 11th Panchen Lama separately but also to discuss and bring to light the unlawful actions of the Chinese government.” Furthermore, he made a noteworthy point about his experiences under Soviet Union rule, expressing his complete distrust of the authoritarian government, including the Chinese government.
The other members the delegation also participated in the press conference and shared their concerns over the PRC’s continued repression inside Tibet.
Henn Põlluaas., Member of the Estonian Parliament and its Former Speaker, addressing during the press conference. Photo / Tenzin Jigme Taydeh / CTA
A media personnel asking his question to the Estonian delegation during the press conference. Photo / Tenzin Jigme Taydeh / CTA
