Dharamshala — Tibetan leaders reached out to congratulate Emmanuel Macron, the new President-elect of France, who was elected on May 7th.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama wrote to Emmanuel Macron this morning to congratulate him on his victory in the French presidential election.
In his letter he recalled his conversation with the President-Elect during his visit to France last year:
“It was an honor to meet with you in Paris last September. I very much appreciate the sentiments you expressed at that time. During my visits to your country over the years, I have been touched by the affection and friendship shown to me by people from all walks of life.
“As you know, I am an enthusiastic admirer of the spirit of the European Union - putting the wider community's long-term common interest ahead of national and other local concerns. I hope the European Union will grow from strength to strength and that it will be a model for other continents to follow in times to come.
“Since France is one of the pillars of the European Union, I am confident that you will be able to play an active role in its successfully meeting the challenges that lie ahead.”
President of the CTA, Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay also congratulated President-elect Macron, the youngest President-elect in French history, saying: "I, on behalf of the Central Tibetan Administration, heartily congratulate you for winning the French presidential election.
“Your decisive victory in the French election is a reflection of the French people’s deep rooted faith in the spirit of reconciliation and integration that you have advocated as part of your En Marche campaign.
“It is a testament to the strength and resonance of France’s three founding principles – Liberty, Fraternity and Equality – in these divided times.
“France is also one of Tibet’s strongest supporters in the European Union. In fact Paris, the Capital of France, has bestowed an honorary citizenship on His Holiness the Dalai Lama in an expression of strong support and solidarity with Tibet and the Tibetan movement in 2008.
“You have also personally met His Holiness the Dalai Lama in September 2016 and voiced support for the Tibet issue in numerous times. Therefore, as you embark upon your responsibility as France’s new President, we remain optimistic of your continued support towards the resolution of the Tibet issue based on the Middle Way Approach.
“As France’s youngest president, we are also hopeful of the fresh impetus that you will inject in global politics and the culture of democratic patriotism,” Sikyong said.
