Dharamshala: Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, extended his heartfelt condolences on the passing of former U.S. Congressman Barney Frank, a steadfast ally and true champion of the Tibetan people. He passed away at the age of 86 in Maine, United States.

In a letter to Jim Ready, spouse of the late Congressman Barney Frank, the Speaker wrote, “I am deeply saddened to learn of the demise of your beloved partner, former Congressman Barney Frank. On behalf of the Tibetan people and the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this difficult time.”

“Congressman Barney Frank was a long-time friend and admirer of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and a steadfast supporter of the Tibetan people for many decades. Through his sponsorship and unwavering support of the Tibetan Resettlement Project under the United States Immigration Act of 1990, nearly 1,000 Tibetans were able to resettle in the United States despite the many challenges and obstacles he faced in advancing the initiative at the time. His compassion and humanitarian vision gave hope and a new beginning to countless displaced Tibetans, and made it possible for Tibetans to preserve and practice their culture and traditions freely to this day.”

“The legacy of Congressman Barney Frank will continue to live on in the hearts of the Tibetan people. His contribution toward the welfare and rehabilitation of Tibetan refugees will always be remembered with profound gratitude and respect. We pray for the departed soul and may his soul rest in peace.”