Sikyong (President) Penpa Tsering, the democratically elected political leader of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, formally known as the Central Tibetan Administration, will be visiting Australia from 11-17 July 2025.
His visit comes in the wake of a historic global celebration marking the 90th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, culminating in the launch of the “Year of Compassion” at the Tsuglagkhang Temple in Dharamsala, India.
More than 8,000 people, including interfaith leaders and dignitaries, gathered to honour the spiritual leader’s enduring message of peace, non-violence, and compassion. Among those in attendance were Indian Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Chief Minister of the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh Pema Khandu and Hollywood actor Richard Gere.
As chief guest, Sikyong Tsering will address a special celebratory event on Friday, 11 July, at the Parliament of New South Wales in Sydney. The gathering will honour the Dalai Lama’s legacy and lasting impact on the Tibetan cause. Introductory remarks will be delivered by Representative Karma Singey of the Office of Tibet (Canberra), along with other distinguished guests.
During his week-long visit, Sikyong Tsering will also meet with Tibetan communities in Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, and Melbourne, engaging with grassroots members and reinforcing solidarity with the diaspora in Australia.
A prominent figure in Tibetan politics, Penpa Tsering has served in the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile for two decades, including two terms as Speaker. He also represented the Dalai Lama and the CTA in North America before assuming office as Sikyong.
In a major announcement on 30 June from his seat in-Exile, the Dalai Lama reaffirmed his dedication to peace, compassion, and service to the Tibetan people and the broader global community, reiterating that the centuries-old institution of his spiritual leadership will continue beyond his lifetime—affirming the aspirations of the Tibetan people inside Tibet and in Exile.
President of the Tibetan Community of NSW, Chozin, reflected on the significance of the moment:
“His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday is a profound milestone not just for Tibetans, but for all people who cherish peace, compassion and justice. For our community in Australia and across the world including in Tibet, his life is a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of oppression. As Tibetans continue our struggle for freedom, we draw strength from his unwavering leadership and the deep love he holds for our people.”
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