Washington DC: Sikyong Penpa Tsering convened representatives of various Buddhist Religious centres based in Toronto at the Tibetan Canadian Cultural Centre on 7 April 2024 to persuade them to adopt a resolution and release a joint statement regarding the issue of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s reincarnation and to discuss programmes for celebrating His Holiness’ 90th birth anniversary for a whole year.
Following a welcome address by Representative Dr Namgyal Choedup at the meeting, Sikyong Penpa Tsering brought up the issue of the Chinese Communist Party’s increased interference in the matter of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation since 2007. However, while reasserting the statement His Holiness made in September 2011 and His Holiness’ plan to discuss with the venerable high lama regarding His reincarnation, Sikyong encouraged religious centres to issue a joint declaration to condemn China’s meddling. The statement, Sikyong stressed, must mention that it was His Holiness’ prerogative to decide on this issue, and whatever His Holiness decides must be respected. Sikyong further emphasised including the significance of the persistence of Gaden Phodrang institution to ensure continuation of Dalai Lama’s lineage.
In addition, Sikyong called for the gathering’s contribution to Kashag’s plan to organise a year-long celebration of His Holiness’ 90th birth anniversary to express gratitude that will begin from His Holiness’ birthday in 2025 till that day of next year.
After Sikyong had concluded his address, the participating representatives from various Buddhist religious centres expressed their support for Sikyong and Kashag’s endeavours.
-Report filed by OoT Washington DC
During Sikyong Penpa Tsering’s meeting with representatives from Toronto-based religious centres.
