Published by: World Tibet Network News 97/05/21 08:00 GMT

(This message was issued to coincide with the release of an English

translation of Wei Jingsheng's book in "The Courage to Stand Alone>". The

book was released in New York last week.)

MESSAGE

I am happy to learn that several human rights organizations are holding

various events to publicize the current plight of Chinese dissident Wei

Jingsheng and those of other prisoners of conscience in China and Tibet to

coincide with the publication of the book, "The Courage to Stand Alone",

the collected prison letters of Wei Jingsheng who is currently serving his

second 14-year prison term in China.

I have much admiration for Wei Jingsheng's steadfast courage in facing the

Chinese government in demanding human rights, democracy and dignity. He

represents people of integrity who are willing to peacefully stand up to

ruthless governments and accept the consequences. Despite long years of

suffering and imprisonment, Wei's spirit remains unshaken.

Wei's efforts have extended beyond advocating rights for the Chinese

people. He has also forcefully spoken out on behalf of the Tibetan people

because of his commitment to a universal concept of fundamental rights. In

1992 Wei wrote an open letter to Deng Xiaoping, calling upon him and other

Chinese leaders to stop perpetuating the lies and distortions of Chinese

propaganda concerning Tibet and calling on China to peacefully resolve the

situation in Tibet through negotiations. This extraordinary letter is yet

another example of Wei Jingsheng's courageous perseverance in support of

freedom, human rights and democracy.

I appeal to all freedom-loving people of the world to speak on behalf of

Wei Jingsheng and other victims of repression in China and Tibet. Under

the totalitarian Chinese rule, the people in China and Tibet are prevented

from exercising the rights and freedoms that many of us take for granted.

We must do all we can to change this inhuman situation.

The Dalai Lama

May 6, 1997