The Tibetan Community in Belgium celebrated the conferment anniversary of the Nobel Peace Prize to His Holiness the Dalai Lama under the stewardship of the 9th committee members on Saturday, 10th December, in Antwerpen, the most Tibetan populated city in Belgium.

Representative Genkhang Rigzin Choedon and Tibetan Community President Palden Tsering led the train of well-wishers offering scarves and mandrel offerings to His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s portrait.

The Tibetan Community Sunday School, Sherab Nangjey, presented the Tibetan National Anthem and Nobel Peace Prize song. A minute’s silence was observed for the sacrifice of Tibetans for Tibet. Mr Palden Tsering, President of the Tibetan Community, gave a brief introductory speech where he requested the public to unite and work together for Tibet’s plight. He also requested the public to actively participate in the upcoming 10 March protest organised by the European Tibetan Communities in Italy and sought donations from those who can’t join the protest personally.

Representative Genkhang Rigzin Choedon recalled the joyous occasion and implored the public to reaffirm their commitment to dedicate their life to Tibet’s freedom. Recalling the occasion’s coincidence with Human Rights Day, she reminded the gathering of Tibet’s continuing violation of human rights.

“As much as we celebrate the day with joy and inspiration that it gives us, we must also re-dedicate ourselves to fulfil the wishes of His Holiness and bring fruition to the aspirations of our brethren in Tibet”, she added. Amid worsening situations inside Tibet each day and the advancing age of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, she urged not to waste time and energy on petty issues within the community.

Representative Genkhang also clarified Sikyong’s recent short visit to Belgium, which was solely organised by FNF Foundation Germany. She affirmed that Sikyong would meet the Tibetans in Belgium later. Additionally, she reminded the gathering about Kashag’s ongoing demographic survey while requesting the public to participate.

Representative Rigzin then gave away the certificates to some of the former and 8th Committee members of the Tibetan Community who attended the celebration.

Between the cultural programs, Belgium Tibetan Community’s VTAG members, Tenzin Namdol and Tenzin Paldon, reminded the public about the importance of the VTAG and its purposes.

Representative Genkhang Rigzin Choedon was accompanied by Secretary Thinley Wangdue of the Office of Tibet, Brussels.