Tibetan community celebrates Panchen Lama's birthday in his absence

The 35th birthday of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, the Dalai Lama-appointed Panchen Lama, was commemorated with fervour in Dharamshala, where the Tibetan leadership of the Tibetan Government in exile fervently called for his release from Chinese custody.

Penpa Tsering, Sikyong or President of the Tibetan government in exile, stated, "Chinese government has not heeded to genuine concerns of the international community and Tibetans in exile. Our most pressing concern is if Panchen Rinpoche is alive or not."

Despite his age, the whereabouts of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima remain unknown, raising grave concerns about his well-being and safety under Chinese custody.

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The Tibetan diaspora, comprising individuals of all ages, came together to celebrate the occasion, emphasising their unwavering support for Panchen Lama Gedhun Choekyi Nyima.

Estonian politicians, including Jukku Kalle Raid and Tarmo Tamm, stood in solidarity with the Tibetan community, attending the festivities despite potential pressure from the Chinese government.

Jukku Kalle Raid, chair of the Estonian parliamentarians support group for Tibet, expressed defiance in the face of anticipated Chinese raising the matter, stating, "We are dealing with communist China, nothing is sure. Panchen was kidnapped at six, we don't know what has happened to him."

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Tarmo Tamm, an Estonian Member of Parliament, echoed similar sentiments, affirming their stance on the side of justice and human rights. He said, "We are on the right side."

Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, recognised as the Dalai Lama-appointed Panchen Lama, has been missing since his abduction by Chinese authorities in 1995 at the age of six. The Chinese have appointed their own Panchen Lama in his place, which has been rejected by Tibetans globally.