Brussels: As India commemorates its 79th Independence Day, celebrations are being held across the country and among Indian communities worldwide. In Brussels, the Office of Tibet’s EU Advocacy Officer, Tenzin Phuntsok, took part in a celebration hosted by the Embassy of India to the European Union, Belgium, and Luxembourg.

The event began with the ceremonial hoisting of the Indian national flag by His Excellency Shri Saurabh Kumar, Ambassador of India, in the presence of embassy staffs and members of the Indian diaspora in Brussels. This was followed by the Ambassador’s reading of the President of India’s address to the nation. The program also featured vibrant patriotic songs and cultural performances by the local Indian community.

Representing the Office of Tibet, EU Advocacy Officer conveyed heartfelt greetings to His Excellency and extended gratitude to the Government and people of India for their steadfast support and generosity toward the Tibetan cause over the decades.

During their brief exchange, Phuntsok informed the Ambassador about the Central Tibetan Administration’s ongoing year-long celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday. Observed as the Year of Compassion, the celebration began this July and will continue until July next year, featuring a series of commemorative events here in Belgium and around the world.

His Excellency warmly acknowledged the presence of a representative from the Office of Tibet and appreciated the participation. Engagements of this kind help to maintain regular contact with the Indian Mission and further strengthen the enduring relationship between the two offices.