Dharamshala — His Holiness the Dalai Lama congratulates former U.S. President Donald Trump on his victory in the presidential election. His Holiness said, "In these times of great uncertainty and upheaval in several parts of the world, it is my hope that you will provide leadership in bringing about peace and stability", in the world.
The spiritual leader of Tibet wrote to former President Donald Trump on 7 November 2024 to congratulate him on his victory in the U.S.A. presidential election on 6 November 2024. His Holiness wrote, "I have long admired the United States of America as the champion of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. The world places great hope in the democratic vision and leadership of the U.S.A. In these times of great uncertainty and upheaval in several parts of the world, it is my hope that you will provide leadership in bringing about peace and stability."
"The Tibetan people and I have been honoured to have received the support of respective U.S. Presidents and the American people in our endeavour to protect and preserve our ancient Buddhist culture—a culture of peace, non-violence, and compassion that has the potential to benefit humanity as a whole," His Holiness added. He concluded, "I wish you every success in meeting the many challenges that lie ahead in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the American people and in contributing to peace in the world."
The U.S. President-elect, Donald Trump, has the potential to contribute to world peace through his leadership and strategic diplomacy, as evidenced by his prior engagement with international issues. Throughout his presidency, Trump pursued a foreign policy aimed at reducing conflict and fostering direct dialogue with adversaries. His administration’s focus on brokering peace deals in the Middle East, such as the Abraham Accords—which normalised relations between Israel and several Arab nations—demonstrated his ability to bring parties together in pursuit of stability.
Trump’s “America First” approach also sought to reorient U.S. foreign policy in a different way that prioritised long-term peace and strengthened allies, even as it sometimes alienated traditional partners. His strong stance on military matters and international negotiations could be seen as a stabilising force, reinforcing his capability to lead efforts for peace and security on a global scale, despite his unpopular and controversial relationships with modern dictators, such as Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
The Dalai Lama expressed his hope for peace and stability in his message to Donald Trump, recognising the critical role the U.S. plays in global leadership. As a proponent of democracy, freedom, and human rights, His Holiness has long regarded the United States as a beacon of these values, acknowledging its influence in shaping international peace and security. The Dalai Lama’s hope for Trump to provide leadership comes at a time when the world faces significant challenges—including geopolitical tensions and humanitarian crises.
His Holiness expressed his hopes that Trump can steer the nation towards efforts that promote global harmony through drawing on the U.S.’s legacy of democratic ideals and diplomatic engagement. His call for peace reflects his longstanding belief in the power of compassion, non-violence, and cooperation—principles he has championed throughout his entire life, and which he hopes will guide U.S.A. leadership in the coming years.
