Sangay sworn in as Prime Minister of Tibetan government-in-exile

May 30, 2016;

Traditional dance artistes performing during the swearing-in ceremony of Tibetan Prime Minister Lobsang Sangay at Dharamsala on Friday.– Photo: PTI

The Hindu, 28 May 2016

Lobsang Sangay was on Friday sworn in for his consecutive second term as prime minister of the Tibetan government-in-exile, in the presence of spiritual leader the Dalai Lama here.

Sangay was re-elected last month, after he defeated his lone rival Penpa Tsering, the Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament, winning more than 57 per cent of the votes.

Addressing the a packed audience at the main Tibetan temple, Sangay said the “middle way” policy envisioned by the Dalai Lama to peacefully resolve the issue of Tibet’s autonomy, would continue to remain the official policy of the Central Tibetan Administration.

“We are committed to make efforts towards the holding of talks between the envoys of the Dalai Lama and the representatives of the Chinese government and resolve the issue of Tibet peacefully during His Holiness’ lifetime,” he said.

He also apologised for “moral shortcomings” witnessed during the election campaign, when several candidates had allegedly criticised the spiritual leader’s handling of the Tibet issue.

The Dalai Lama in his address, spoke of the rich cultural and religious traditions of Tibet and the need for a holistic education of Tibetan children.

“Tibet is called the roof of the world. Similarly, the rich Buddhist culture and tradition of Tibet is also one of the best traditions in the world,” he said.

“Over the years I have met numerous people, including scholars, scientists, politicians and spiritual leaders.

“In my interaction with these people, I have come to realise that the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, derived from the Nalanda tradition of India, is among the best, primarily because it is based in scientific analysis and logical study,” he said.

As the ceremony began, Sangay prostrated before the spiritual leader and presented him with a ceremonial Tibetan scarf.

Several monks then recited a prayer of blessing to inaugurate the event, followed by serving of traditional Tibetan tea and sweetened rice to the gathering.

The ceremony was attended by thousands of Tibetans and supporters of their cause, besides R. K. Khrimey, MLA and advisor to the Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister. – PTI