An 11-member delegation from the Swedish parliament participated in the commemoration of the 63rd Tibetan Democracy Day on Saturday, showing solidarity with the Tibetan community. Led by Margareta Elisabeth Cederfelt, the delegation also had the privilege of meeting with the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, and emphasized the significance of his message promoting peace.
Tibetan Democracy Day, observed on September 2nd, marks the establishment of the Tibetan democratic system in exile. On this day in 1960, the Dalai Lama founded the Tibetan parliament, comprising elected representatives from all three provinces of Tibet and religious orders.
Responding to inquiries about their efforts to advocate for Tibetans in the Swedish parliament and government, Cederfelt explained that parliamentarians employ various means at their disposal, including debates and discussions focused on Tibet. Many colleagues have introduced bills related to Tibet, often collaborating with the Swedish Tibetan Committee.
Additionally, they host visitors from Tibet, including the honorable Sikyong, who has visited the Swedish Parliament. Engagement with religious leaders and citizens across Sweden further amplifies their discussions on democracy and Tibet.
Cederfelt commended the Tibetan government in exile for its commitment to equal voting rights regardless of gender, age, or social classification, highlighting that everyone has an equal opportunity to run for office.
Expressing condemnation for China’s colonial boarding school system in Tibet, she called for China to grant Tibetans the freedom to practice their religion, preserve their culture and language, and safeguard their Tibetan identity.
Richard Johannes Jomshof, another Swedish MP, emphasized the strong support for Tibet within Sweden and noted the Dalai Lama’s revered status in the country. He stressed that parliamentarians and citizens alike have a role to play in raising awareness about Tibet’s long-standing challenges and advocating for its cause.
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