Washington DC: In a special reunion, Sikyong Penpa Tsering, the democratically elected leader of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), met with former U.S. Special Coordinators for Tibetan Issues over an informal breakfast meeting in Washington, D.C., on 31 October 2025.
The U.S. Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues, established within the U.S. Department of State under the Tibetan Policy Act of 2002, represents a position of deep importance to the Tibetan people as it serves as a vital channel for dialogue, coordination, and advocacy on matters concerning Tibet. Moreover, this office coordinates U.S. government efforts in support of the fundamental rights and welfare of the Tibetan people.
The meeting brought together former U.S. Special Coordinators who have each, during their tenure, made contributions to the advancement of Tibet-related initiatives within successive U.S. administrations. Those present included Gregory Craig, the first U.S. Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues; Paula Dobriansky, who served under President George W. Bush; Maria Otero, who held the post during President Obama’s administration; and Uzra Zeya, who served as the U.S. Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues under President Biden’s administration.
This marked the first time that former U.S. Special Coordinators for Tibetan Issues have jointly met with Sikyong Penpa Tsering, making the occasion both historic and meaningful. Though informal in setting, the gathering carried a symbolic significance, reflecting the enduring bipartisan and institutional support that the United States has extended to the Tibetan cause over the years.
The meeting was also joined by several Board Members of the International Campaign for Tibet (ICT), Representative Namgyal Choedup of the Office of Tibet, Washington, D.C., and Tencho Gyatso, President of the International Campaign for Tibet, along with ICT staff.
