(TibetanReview.net, Apr09, 2013) – A conference on Tibet is to be held at the European Parliament in Brussels on Apr 10 with focus on issues concerned with the ongoing spate of self-immolation protests in Chinese ruled Tibet. The conference is being hosted by MEPs belonging to the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE).
In particular, the conference – “Tears of Tibet” – will assess the impacts of Chinese policies on human rights and the environment in Tibet, and the role of the Europe Union in addressing the concerns surrounding these issues.
Expressing concern that China was not interested in seeking a just solution to the ongoing tragedy in Tibet, ALDE said in a statement: “Tensions between the local Tibetans and the Chinese state have increased since the Tibetan uprising against the Chinese rule in 2008. Up to now we have unfortunately not seen any significant signs that the Chinese state is looking to achieve a genuine peace settlement.”
The conference will explore the scope for a European Parliament action for a peaceful solution and discuss ways to change the current approach/strategy. ALDE believes that the EU should have a stronger role in trying to solve the growing tension in Tibet.
The speakers will include MEP Kristiina Ojuland who will deliver the welcome address; Ms Kate Saunders, Director of Communications at the International Campaign for Tibet; Ms Katia Buffetrille, ethnologist and Tibetologist; Mr Roy Strider, Estonian writer, human rights and social justice activist; and the Dalai Lama’s Paris-based representative Mr Nogdup Dorjee.