Brussels, 14 May 2025: On the invitation of the International Campaign (ICT) for Tibet Brussels, Representative Rigzin Genkhang delivered the concluding remarks at a conference in the European Parliament focused on damming of rivers in Tibet and its human, environmental and geopolitical cost. The conference brought together environmental experts, policy advocates and European stakeholders to examine the far-reaching consequences of China’s hydropower projects on the Tibetan Plateau.

In the closing address, Representative Rigzin Genkhang drew attention to Tibet’s strategic importance and to the ecological fragility of the region, warning of the risks these projects pose to Asia’s major river systems and the hundreds of millions who depend on them downstream. The remark underscored the need for global climate and environmental institutions to recognise the strategic importance of the Tibetan plateau and include it in frameworks for protection.

Earlier in the day, and continuing the following day, Representative Rigzin Genkhang held a series of meetings with Members of European Parliament. These engagements provided an opportunity to express gratitude for the recent EP resolution on the violations of religious freedom in Tibet and to discuss the way forward. EU Advocacy Officer Tenzin Phuntsok was also in attendance.