The Australian All Party Parliamentary Group for Tibet (AAPGT) held a special event in Canberra to update members on Tibet and to honor Senator Janet Rice for her commitment to Tibet as she prepares to retire from the Senate in April 2024. The gathering was organized by the Australia Tibet Council and the Tibet Information Office in Canberra, reports Tibet.net.
The event saw attendance from over 80 parliamentarians, their staff, and Tibet supporters, including notable figures such as Susan Templeman MP, Senator Dean Smith, and the incoming Co-Chair for the AAPGT, Senator Barbara Pocock. They gathered to discuss recent developments in Tibet, including the Chinese government’s crackdown on peaceful Tibetan protesters.
Dr. Zoe Bedford of the Australia Tibet Council led the briefing, focusing on the peaceful Tibetan protests against hydroelectric dam construction in Derge. Representative Karma Singey of the Office of Tibet expressed deep gratitude to Senator Rice for her steadfast support of Tibet throughout her time in the Australian parliament. He highlighted her role in championing the cause of Tibetan freedom and justice.
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During the event, Senator Rice was presented with a miniature Tibetan Stupa by Representative Singey, symbolizing appreciation for her efforts toward the freedom and justice of oppressed peoples worldwide. Senator Rice shared her ongoing commitment to fighting for a free Tibet and announced her upcoming role on the board of the Australia Tibet Council.
The event also welcomed Senator Barbara Pocock as the new Co-Chair of the AAPGT, signaling a continued commitment to supporting Tibet within the Australian Parliament. Messages of gratitude were shared, including one from Kalon Norzin Dolma of the Department of Information and International Relations, CTA, praising Senator Rice’s advocacy for the Tibetan people.
Senator Dean Smith shared insights from his recent visit to Dharamshala, reflecting on his meetings with exiled Tibetan leaders and the Tibetan refugee community. The event concluded with Tibetan cuisine, offering guests a taste of Tibetan culture through butter tea and momos.
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