The Hague, the Netherlands: Sikyong Penpa Tsering continued his engagements in The Hague, the political capital of the Netherlands, on the second day of his visit, holding discussions with Dutch government officials and engaging with members of the Dutch media on a wide range of issues concerning Tibet.
Sikyong, accompanied by Representative Rigzin Genkhang, held discussions with senior Dutch government officials on strengthening the Netherlands’ support for Tibet, which were also joined by Tenzin Lekshay, Director of the Tibet Policy Institute, and EU Advocacy Officer Tenzin Phuntsok of the Office of Tibet, Brussels.
During the meetings, Sikyong expressed his appreciation for the Dutch government’s principled position on the deteriorating state of religious freedom in Tibet, particularly its support for the right of the Tibetan people to determine the reincarnation of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The Netherlands had joined six other European nations in expressing support on this important issue.
Later during the day, Sikyong participated in a roundtable with members of the Dutch media, including Garrie van Pinxteren, author and former China correspondent, as well as Alerk Ablikim of De Groene Amsterdammer, a national weekly, Matthijs van Schie of EW Magazine, a leading Dutch national weekly and Adjiedj Bakas, Speaker, Author, Influencer. The discussions covered a broad range of issues, including but not limited to the Sino-Tibet conflict, the prevailing political situation in Tibet, and wider developments concerning the Tibetan people.
Against the backdrop of a complex diplomatic environment and heightened sensitivities surrounding the visit, the day’s engagements marked a significant step in Sikyong’s efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations with the Dutch government, deepen bilateral dialogue, and champion the cause of Tibet in The Hague, the International City of Peace and Justice. The interactions also provided an important platform to strengthen international awareness of the critical situation in Tibet and reaffirm the importance of continued support for the Tibetan cause.
– Report filed by Office of Tibet, Brussels
