Dharamshala: In light of the recent media coverage regarding the United States’ decision to cancel 83 per cent of the USAID programmes, concerns have been raised by Tibetans and supporters of Tibet about the potential implications for the Tibetan people’s ongoing pursuit of freedom and justice. In response to these concerns, Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration received a reassuring letter from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on 10 March 2025. The letter reaffirmed the United States’ steadfast commitment to advocating for the human rights of Tibetans and supporting Tibetans to exercise fundamental freedoms without fear of persecution and to live lives in peace and dignity.
During the ongoing ninth Tibetan parliamentary session, Sikyong Penpa Tsering remarked that a letter, addressed to the position of Sikyong of the Central Tibetan Administration and personally sent by the U.S. Chief Diplomat, reflects the United States’ unwavering commitment to the Tibetan cause. Inspired by the teachings of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, this historic gesture – probably the first of its kind – signifies a deep, ongoing recognition of the Tibetan people’s struggle. It further strengthens the enduring bond between the Tibetan community and the U.S. government.
Sikyong acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the 16th Kashag, the Office of Tibet in Washington D.C., and the International Campaign for Tibet and the Tibet Fund, which continue to press for securing necessary assistance, vital to the preservation of Tibetan culture, language, and religious heritage. For these efforts to succeed, Sikyong stressed that the Central Tibetan Administration’s programmes and initiatives must align with the interests of the current U.S. administration, and above all the broader aspirations of the Tibetan people.
Earlier on 1 March, Secretary Marco Rubio also extended his Losar greetings via his official X platform (formerly Twitter), reaffirming the United States’ firm commitment to the Tibetan cause. His message read: “Losar Tashi Delek to all those around the world celebrating Tibetan New Year. Today, we celebrate the strength and perseverance of the Tibetan community worldwide and reaffirm our commitment to the preservation of Tibetans’ distinct cultural, linguistic, and religious heritage.”
Even with the suspension of USAID programs, the frequent reiteration across multiple platforms underscores the United States’ resolute dedication to upholding its policies on Tibet and its long-standing support for the Tibetan cause.
