U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday (Oct. 14) appointed Robert A. Destro, Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, as the U.S. Special Coordinator for Tibet.
In a written statement, Pompeo said that under the U.S. Tibet Policy Act, Special Coordinator Destro will lead U.S. efforts to promote dialogue between the People’s Republic of China and the Dalai Lama or his representatives; to protect the unique religious, cultural, and linguistic identity of Tibetans; and to urge respect for their human rights. The statement said the Special Coordinator for Tibet will also support U.S. efforts to address the humanitarian needs of Tibetan refugees, promote sustainable economic development and environmental protection for Tibetan communities in the highlands.
From 2002 to 2010, representatives of the Dalai Lama, Tibet’s spiritual leader, held a total of ten meetings, nine negotiations, and one informal meeting with Beijing, with 2010 being the last.
Secretary Pompeo said the United States remains concerned about China’s repression of the Tibetan community, including the lack of meaningful autonomy, deteriorating human rights conditions in Tibetan areas, and severe restrictions on Tibetans’ religious freedom and cultural traditions in China.
Pompeo said Special Coordinator Destro will engage with Tibetan leaders and international partners and experts to address these concerns. He will also advance engagement with the global Tibetan diaspora and support their many courageous advocacies for the protection of human rights, including freedom of religion or belief.
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