Himachal: Sikyong allays concerns over reduction in USAID grants
The US government’s decision to cancel 83 per cent of the USAID programmes has raised concerns among Tibetan exiles and supporters of Tibet about its potential implications for their ongoing campaigns for the freedom of Tibet.
In response to these concerns, Sikyong Penpa Tsering, president of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), said he had received a reassuring letter from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on March 10.
The letter reaffirmed the USA’s steadfast commitment to advocating for the human rights of Tibetans and supporting Tibetans to exercise fundamental freedom without fear of persecution and to live lives in peace and dignity.
During the ongoing ninth Tibetan parliamentary session, Sikyong Penpa Tsering remarked that a letter has been sent by the US Chief Diplomat, which reflects the USA’s commitment to the Tibetan cause. Inspired by the teachings of the 14th Dalai Lama, this historic gesture, probably the first of its kind, signifies recognition of the Tibetan people’s struggle. It further strengthens the bond between the Tibetan community and the US government, he said.
Sikyong acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the 16th Kashag, the Office of Tibet in Washington DC, and the International Campaign for Tibet and the Tibet Fund, which continue to press for securing necessary assistance vital to the preservation of Tibetan culture, language, and religious heritage. For these efforts to succeed, Sikyong said that the Central Tibetan Administration’s programmes and initiatives must align with the interests of the current US administration and above all the broader aspirations of the Tibetan people.
Earlier on March 1, Secretary Marco Rubio extended his Losar greetings via his official X platform (formerly Twitter), reaffirming the USA’s commitment to the Tibetan cause.
His message said, “Losar Tashi Delek to all those around the world celebrating Tibetan New Year. We celebrate the strength and perseverance of the Tibetan community worldwide and reaffirm our commitment to the preservation of Tibetans’ distinct cultural, linguistic, and religious heritage.”
