Letter from the Dalai Lama to President Ronald Reagan regarding Tibet, 03/10/1984

THEKCHEN CHOELING THE DALAI LAMA McLEOD GANJ 176219 KANGRA DISTRICT HIMACHAL PRADESH March 10, 1984 Your Excellency, It has been twenty-five years since we were forced into exile. During these years, though we are comparatively a small refugee group we have nevertheless been successful in maintaining our identity as well as keeping alive the unique cultural heritage of the Tibetan people. However, in Tibet itself, the Chinese authorities have attempted to paint the Tibetan society before 1959 as medieval and backward and have thus carried out systematic and complete destruction of our cultural heritage. Yet certain aspects of that medieval society', such as Buddhism and the traditional system of Tibetan medicine are today beginning to make some contribution towards the well-being of thousands of people around the world. Moreover, because there is a better understanding of the true Tibetan issue there is an increasing awareness of and a growing interest in the Issue of Tibet throughout the world, including a wide-ranging public in the United States. This is not only encouraging to the Tibetan people but it also confirms our belief that truth and justice will prevail ultimately. During the early period of our present national struggle, America, in keeping with her tradition of safeguarding personal liberty and national freedom has extended active support to the people of Tibet. Many of our people even today recall with gratitude that American support. 2/- - 2 - Your Excellency is intending to pay an official visit to the People's Republic of China some time next month. And the purpose of my writing this letter to you is to request you, should you find it convenient, to raise the Issue of Tibet during your discussions with the Chinese leaders in your personal capacity and not as the President of the United States. I would fully understand if this were not possible, but will greatly appreciate Your Excellency letting me know. Finally, may I send you my good wishes and prayers for the success of your important visit to China. I hope your visit will not only enhance the establishment of closer relationship between the peoples of the United States and China but will also contribute in finding solutions to the problems that mankind is facing today. With assurances of my highest esteem and personal regards, Yours sincerely, His Excellency Ronald Reagan The President of the United States of America White House Washington D.C. U. S. A.