Antwerp, Belgium: On 22 December 2025 in Antwerp, the Tibetan Association of Chushi Gangdrug, Belgium, commemorated the 36th anniversary of conferment of Nobel Peace Prize on His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and hosted an advanced Tibetan new year celebration.

The programme commenced at approximately 6:30 PM with a portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama being escorted to the throne, followed by the chief guest and members of both president and vice president of the Tibetan Association of Chushi Gangdrug offering mandalas, after which they presented greeting scarves to the guests. This was followed by prayers for His Holiness’ long life, singing of the Tibetan national anthem and Chu-gang army song, and then a minute’s silence was observed in remembrance of martyrs of the nation.

During the programme, the President and General Secretary of the Tibetan Association of Chushi Gangdrug, Belgium, delivered welcome addresses and brief remarks marking the significance of the anniversary. The chief guest,  Dhondup Gyalpo, the Tibetan Liaison Officer from Office of Tibet in Brussels, addressed the gathering and spoke on the profound impact of His Holiness receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. He noted that the award transformed the Tibetan struggle into a universal cause, increased international attention towards Tibetan religion and culture, and provided crucial support for their preservation and promotion.

The Tibetan Liaison Officer further highlighted that the Nobel Peace Prize enabled His Holiness to engage with Western scientists, political leaders and scholars, strengthened international discussions on the Tibet cause and the adoption of resolutions, and firmly established global faith in His Holiness’ non-violent and peaceful ideology. He added that it enhanced His Holiness’ stature as a global peace ambassador, contributed to the worldwide spread of Buddhism, particularly the Tibetan Buddhism, and instilled renewed hope, courage and confidence among Tibetans both inside and outside Tibet. He emphasised that the Nobel Peace Prize has been of immense benefit and a great act of kindness to all Tibetans.

While extending his greetings for the auspicious occasion of the Tibetan New Year and the approaching International New Year, he urged Tibetans to strengthen their command of their language and culture, pay attention to health, foster internal unity and mutual support within the community, and continue to uphold dedication and commitment to the common cause.

The programme featured a series of cultural performances presented by members of the Tibetan Association of Chushi Gangdrug, Belgium, including yak dances, dramas, circle dances, poetry recitations, traditional costume fashion shows, and solo songs and dances. Refreshments were served to the guests, and the event concluded successfully in a festive and harmonious atmosphere.