Dharamshala: On behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration and the Tibetan people, Sikyong Penpa Tsering offered heartfelt congratulations to Senator Dean Smith on his appointment as the Shadow Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia.
In his congratulatory letter, Sikyong acknowledged Australia’s vital role in supporting the Tibetan community, noting, “Australia continues to play an indispensable role in the resettlement and rehabilitation of Tibetan refugees. The generous support of the Australian Government and its people in providing a safe haven where Tibetans can freely preserve their language, religion, and cultural heritage is deeply appreciated.”
Sikyong lauded Senator Smith’s longstanding support for Tibet, noting, “Your steadfast advocacy in championing the rights and freedoms of the Tibetan people, and in bringing international attention to the plight of Tibetans in Tibet, have earned you a place of deep honour in our hearts.”
He expressed particular gratitude for Senator Smith’s instrumental role in the continuation of the Special Humanitarian Program for Tibetans in Australia and Sikyong noted, “Your steadfast advocacy in championing the rights and freedoms the Tibetan people, and in bringing international attention to the plight of Tibetans in Tibet, have earned you a place of deep honour in our hearts. Amid this, ‘Year of Compassion,’ honouring His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday, your solidarity holds particular resonance.
Referring to Senator Smith’s recent visit to the Tibetan community in Dharamshala, Sikyong wrote, “Your visit further reaffirmed your longstanding commitment and the bond between our peoples. We remain hopeful that this enduring friendship will continue to grow, guided by shared values and mutual respect.”
Concluding his message, Sikyong offered his best wishes to Senator Dean Smith, concluding, “Once again, please accept our heartiest congratulations and best wishes.”
