Dharamshala: An Australian Parliamentary Delegation led by Senator Derryn Hinch and Deputy Leader Kevin Andrews MP arrived in Dharamshala, the seat of the Central Tibetan Administration, today on a four-day official visit from 20 – 23 November. The delegation is being accompanied by Representative Lhakpa Tshoko, Office of Tibet, Canberra.
Earlier this morning, the four-member parliamentary delegation received an exclusive audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Taj Mahal Hotel, Mansingh Road in New Delhi.
In the meeting, His Holiness exhorted the members of parliament to promote dialogue as way forward in resolving conflicts. He pointed out pressing need for the world to approach the new millennium more holistically and with farsighted vision.
On the environment front, His Holiness expressed that he was deeply disappointed by the US decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord in June. He said seven billion people of the earth must have a sense of well being for the entire humanity and a sense of concern for the environment.
His Holiness also discussed the transition of centuries old Tibetan government system under the Dalai Lama institution to a full-fledged Tibetan democracy in exile, his semi-retirement from political leadership in 2001 and complete devolution of power to an elected leadership in 2011.
The Delegation consists of four Parliamentarians including Senator Derryn Hinch, Leader of the Delegation, Justice Party of Australia; Hon Kevin Andrews MP, Deputy Leader and Former Defence Minister, Liberal Party; Senator Kimberly Kitching, Labor Party of Australia and Meryl Jane Swanson MP, Labor Party of Australia.
During this visit, the delegation will meet with President of the Central Tibetan Administration, Dr Lobsang Sangay. They will visit various Tibetan Institutions and meet with Tibetans.
On 23 November, the delegation will hold a press briefing at Norbu House at 9.30 AM.
Members of the Australian parliamentary delegation with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Photo/Jeremy Russell/OHHDL