Prague, Czech Republic: Sikyong Penpa Tsering arrived in Prague in the early hours of the morning, marking the final destination of his European tour, to participate in the 28th Forum 2000 that is scheduled from 13 to 15 October. The first day of Sikyong’s visit began with a meeting with representatives of the Tibet Support Groups: Zuzana from the Potala Himalayan Center and Edita Kleckerová from Lungta. Their discussions centred on plans for the upcoming 90th birthday celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, with a particular focus on project implementation.
During the conversation, the representatives expressed concerns regarding the insufficient awareness in the Czech media regarding the current well-being of His Holiness, which led to inquiries about his health and the situation of Tibetans, particularly those in Tibet. Following this meeting, Sikyong gave an interview to Liam Scott and Jessica Jerreat of Voice of America, during which he addressed the issue of Chinese transnational repression and underscored the importance of the Tibet-Czech Republic relationship.
In the evening, Sikyong Penpa Tsering engaged in a meeting with His Excellency Fernando Iglesias, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Chamber of Deputies of Argentina, and His Excellency Claudio J. Rozencwaig, Ambassador of Argentina to the Czech Republic, at the 28th Forum 2000. His Excellency Fernando Iglesias, drawing on his extensive experience and knowledge as a journalist, demonstrated a profound understanding of Chinese history, expressing his firm support for human rights and voicing concern for those suffering oppression. Sikyong Penpa Tsering encouraged both dignitaries to explore the “Tibet Brief 2020” and Professor Lau’s book on Tibet, both of which provide compelling evidence that Tibet has never been a part of China. He urged them to critically assess these materials rather than accepting the narrative promoted by the Chinese government to the international community.
The day culminated in the opening and award ceremony of the 28th Forum 2000, held at the prestigious Prague Congress Center. The event gathered an assembly of dignitaries from across the globe, with the conference focusing on the theme of democracy. Her Excellency Tsai Ing-Wen, the former President of Taiwan, and Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration were prominently seated in the front row. The keynote speakers at the opening ceremony included His Excellency Miloš Vystrčil, President of the Senate of the Czech Republic, and Walter Russell Mead. Mead emphasised the gravity of the current global situation, stating, “Not since the 1940s has democracy been under this kind of threat, and not since the 1930s has the world been this close to a major power conflict.” He highlighted the lack of responsibility and courage displayed by individuals in free countries, which has enabled the geopolitical expansionist ambitions of nations such as China and others. The speakers collectively stressed the urgent need to safeguard democracy amid escalating global challenges. The event provided a distinguished platform for dignitaries to engage in meaningful dialogue and exchange ideas on strengthening democratic values.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering with H.E. Tsai Ing-wen, the former President of Taiwan
Sikyong Penpa Tsering and Representative Thinlay Chukki engaged in a meeting with H.E. Fernando Iglesias, member of the Chamber of Deputies, Argentina and H.E. Claudio J Rozencwaig, Ambassador of Argentina in Czech Republic at the 28 Forum 2000.
Sikyong with H.E. Fernando Iglesias.
Sikyong with Ambassador Claudio.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering and Representative Thinlay Chukki with Walter Russell Mead, Carl Gershman, and Hsu Szu-chien.
Sikyong and Representative Thinlay Chukki after a meeting with representatives of Tibet Support Groups: Zuzana from Potala Himalayan Center and Edita Kleckerová from Lungta in Prague, Czech Republic.
Liam Scott from Voice of America interviewing Sikyong. Penpa Tsering.
