London: - The recently elected Kalon Tripa, Dr. Lobsang Sangay told reporters in New Delhi, today that he was ready to begin talks with China "anytime, anywhere".
The newly elected head of the Tibetan government in exile also told reporters that his priorities as political leader of Tibetan exiles include bringing more freedom to Tibet and seeing the Dalai Lama return to his homeland. Lobsang stated in his acceptance message that, "His Holiness the Dalai Lama is my inspiration and I will seek to achieve the ambitious objectives he has set for us," today he added to this sentiment by once again assuring Tibetans that he will uphold His Holiness' policies.
Policies such as the ‘Middle Way Approach', which accepts Tibet within the framework of the Constitution of the Chinese Government, but seeks out a strong and genuine right to self-government (autonomy) for all the Tibetan nationalities within China. In his speech to the gathered reporters he stated categorically that, "When I take over I will implement that policy (Middle Way Approach)".
The Tibetan government in exile has attempted dialogue with the Chinese government but nine previous rounds of talks between Beijing and the Dalai Lama's envoys have made no headway. Past meeting have been seen by the international community as simply China's need to be seen as engaging the Tibetans to resolve the issue, yet not improving Tibetans' livelihood and freedom. Lobsang is adamant that such discussion will once again take place, "From our side we are willing to negotiate with the Chinese government anytime, anywhere," the 43-year-old Harvard legal scholar said.
He is hoping for a more productive and positive set of discussions rather than the stagnant nine rounds of meetings that began in 2002.
Sangay is to be sworn in on May 30 in Dharmsala but will only assume office in August when the term of the current prime minister ends.
