Dharamshala: Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel launched a four-volume book on His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s four principal commitments today at the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA) in Gangchen Kyishong on November 15, 2024.

The books, published by researcher Kunchok Tenzin with support from the Kalsang Tibetan Traditional Art of Thangka Painting, explore His Holiness’s core commitments. During the event, the speaker emphasized His Holiness’s unwavering dedication to the Tibetan struggle and the welfare of the Tibetan people.

The book launch event was graced by Chief Guest Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Special Guest Secretary Lobsang Jinpa of the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and LTWA Director Geshe Lhakdor. Parliamentarians Lobsang Thupten and Tsering Lhamo also attended, along with members of the public.

Addressing the gathering, the Speaker emphasized the invaluable contributions of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to the Tibetan struggle, his efforts in preserving and promoting Tibetan culture and religion, and his commitment to protecting Tibet’s environment, among numerous other accomplishments.

Speaking about His Holiness’s video message at the 8th World Parliamentarians’ Convention on Tibet, the Speaker shared how His Holiness highlighted that supporting Tibet goes beyond a political stance—it is a commitment to truth, justice, Tibet’s unique culture of non-violence, its environment, and much more.

The Speaker also noted His Holiness’s establishment of reform committees aimed at creating a just society in Tibet when he assumed leadership. Reflecting on his visits to China and India in 1954 and 1956, the Speaker pointed out that His Holiness observed two very different forms of government, with India’s democratic system inspiring him to seek a similar system for Tibet.

The Speaker further highlighted His Holiness’s profound commitment to democracy, which included the promulgation of Tibet’s future constitution, the drafting and adoption of the Charter of Tibetans in Exile, the election of the Kalon Tripa by the Tibetan people, and the complete devolution of His Holiness’s political authority to the leadership of the Central Tibetan Administration.

Speaking on the shared fate of the people from the three provinces of Tibet, the Speaker emphasized His Holiness’s vision of a united Tibet, encompassing all three regions, and his unwavering dedication to realizing this goal. He called for a collective effort from all Tibetans to achieve this aspiration

The Speaker also highlighted His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s immense contributions in preserving Tibet’s distinct cultural heritage, beginning with the establishment of Tibetan schools upon his arrival in exile in India. He praised His Holiness for maximizing the global benefit of Tibetan Buddhism, for bridging the gap between Tibetans inside and outside Tibet, and for building a robust network of international support for Tibet. Furthermore, the Speaker spoke on the introduction of the Middle Way Approach, which was subsequently adopted unanimously by the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile.

In closing, the Speaker commended the Kalsang Tibetan Traditional Art of Thangka Painting and its researchers for their dedicated work. He suggested that future discussions and deliberations be organized to further explore His Holiness’s commitments and aspirations, offering deeper insights into his vision for Tibet and the Tibetan people.