Tashi Delek and Namaste to Convener Shri Bhartruhari Mahtab, Co-convener Shri Tapir Gao, all the honorable Members of the Indian Parliament and my dear colleagues!

It is such a great honor to welcome each of you this afternoon. Your presence is a testament to your unwavering support for Tibet and the Tibetan cause, for which we are profoundly grateful.

The All-Party Indian Parliamentary Forum for Tibet (APIPFT) is a dynamic platform that unites Indian political leaders with a shared commitment to supporting and advocating for Tibet.

Founded in 1970 under the leadership of Shri M. C. Chagla, the Forum was later led by Mr. George Fernandes and Mr. Mohan Singh. The creation of this Forum stands as a testament to the enduring support Tibet receives from India’s leadership. We are deeply grateful for the solidarity shown by the people and government of India.

Since assuming their roles on August 4, 2024, Shri Bhartruhari Mahtab Ji, as Convener, and Shri Tapir Gao Ji, as Co-Convener, have admirably served in their positions. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to both honorable Members of Parliament for their unwavering dedication and commitment.

Most importantly, on behalf of all Tibetan people, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to Shri Tapir Gao ji, for taking Zero Hour in the Indian Parliament yesterday to deliver a speech about Tibet. Supporting Tibet is, ultimately, supporting truth. All of your continued advocacy for Tibet strengthens our resolve and inspires us to work harder in our pursuit of justice.

Internationally, Tibet has garnered support from many countries, including the US, and nations across Europe and Asia. The US has adopted many bills and resolutions on Tibet like the Resolve Tibet Act, and others bills.

Tibet holds significant importance for India. Often referred to as the “Roof of the World,” the “Third Pole,” and the “Water Tower of Asia,” Tibet plays a crucial role in providing water to downstream countries, including India. Additionally, India shares one of its longest borders with Tibet.

Historically, Tibet was an independent nation that existed as a buffer state between two great Asian giants, India and China, for centuries until its illegal occupation by China in 1959. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama envisioned Tibet as a sanctuary – a zone of peace at the heart of Asia, where all sentient beings could live in harmony with the delicate balance of nature.

Culturally, geographically, and historically Tibet and India share a strong bond embedded with friendship, love, respect, and brotherhood dating back to ancient times. I take this opportunity to thank India and Indian brothers and sisters.

Today, through this forum and under the leadership of the honorable Convener and Co-Convener, I respectfully urge all Members of Parliament to carefully consider the points outlined in the resolution presented here and to adopt it.

The Central Tibetan Administration which is also known as the Tibetan government in exile is the legitimate representative of Tibet and Tibetans. like any other democratic country, we also have a fully functional democracy gifted by His Holiness the Dalai Lama back in 1960. On 2nd of September 1960, the representatives of the first Tibetan Parliament took their oath of office, marking the foundation of Tibetan democracy.

All of honorable Members of Parliament here are most welcome to visit the Central Tibetan Administration in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh and have first-hand insight into our administration and witness the resilience of the Tibetan people.

Thank you once again. Let us work together for the just cause of Tibet and for the India Tibet friendship.

Jai Bharat! Jai Tibet!