Dharamsala, November 13, 1995

The first ever Tibetan Muslim Conference started here today at the Department of Information and International Relations. Starting on November 13, 1995 the Conference will conclude on November 17, 1995. The Conference is organised by the Africa and Middle East Desk of the Department, based in Delhi. A total of thirty Tibetan Muslim representatives have gathered here to attend this conference. There are sixteen Tibetan Muslims from Jammu and Kashmir Tibetan Muslim Settlement, four from Kathmandu, Nepal and ten from Darjeeling and Kalimpong, India. The Conference started at 9.30 am with the arrival of the chief guests Kalon Tashi Wangdi, Minister of Department of Health who represented the Kashag and Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche, Chairman of the Assembly of Tibetan Peoples Deputies. The Conference was also attended by the Secretaries of the different Departments of the Central Tibetan Administration-in-Exile and representatives of various non-governmental organisations and Institutions.

Hafiz Nasir Qazi, a young Tibetan Muslim, initiated the inaugural function by reading `Koran Tilawat' a verse from the Holy Koran. This was followed by an introductory and welcome speech by Mr. Tempa Tsering, Secretary of the Department of Information and International Relations. In his speech, Mr. Tsering commended the Tibetan Muslims for contributing to the rich culture of Tibet. He stated that at no point of time in the history of Tibet, have there been any conflict between the Tibetan Buddhists and Tibetan Muslims in Tibet. He pointed out that this was a fine example of peace co-existence inspite of religious diversities.

Tahir Shamo, of the Africa and Middle East Office read out a message by Maulana Ali Miyan.

This was followed by a speech by Kalon Tashi Wangdi, Minister of the Department of Health. Kalon Tashi Wangdi said that in our past history as well as in our present situation, we have seen clearly the importance of joint and united stand. He stated that if the Chinese think that they can destroy our culture and identity within a matter of few years, they are very much mistaken.

Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche expressed his pleasure in having had the opportunity to be amongst the Tibetan Muslims. Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche pointed out that the Tibetan Muslim community in Tibet is not a new community but a community that came into existence hundreds of years ago. However, there have been no religious conflicts between Tibetan Muslims and Tibetan Buddhists. He said there is a definite difference between living together with discord and living together in harmony and peaceful co-existence.

Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche stated that in the history of Tibet, the existence of the Tibetan Muslim community enhanced the richness of Tibet's culture. He said a community is rich by its diversity. He also complimented the Tibetan Muslims for preserving the Tibetan Lhasa dialect in its purest form.

Mr. Tashi Phuntsok, Head of the Africa and Middle East Office concluded the inaugural function by a vote of thanks.

The Agenda for the Conference includes:

1. The status and Condition of Tibetan Muslims before 1959

- to be chaired by Mr. Tempa Tsering, Secretary, DIIR

2. The Present Situation of Tibetan Muslims

- to be chaired by Mr. Waliullah Shamo, President, Tibetan Muslims in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

3. Unique Cultural and Religious Traditions of Tibetan Muslims

- to be chaired by Mr. Haji Habibullah Khallow, President, Tibetan Muslims in Darjeeling and Kalimpong, India.

4. Future Prospects of Tibetan Muslims Community

- to be chaired by Mr. Mohammad Shafi, President of Tibetan Muslims in Nepal.

5. Action Plans or Recommendations etc

- to be chaired by Mr. Tashi Phuntsok, Representative (DIIR), Africa and Middle East Office,

DIIR CTA, Dharamsala.