Dharamsala, July 31 – A small town in central Italy has honoured the Tibetan leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama with “The Traglia”, an international prize that it gives annually to various personalities. The town conferred upon His Holiness the Dalai Lama the award “in recognition of His Holiness’ message of kindness, love and compassion”, said a posting on the official website of the Tibetan government in exile here.
Mr Tseten Samdup Chhoekyapa, the Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama based in Geneva, received the award on behalf of the Tibetan leader on July 27 at a ceremony organized as part of the celebrations of Festa del Grano by Jesli town and supported by the Regional government.
Representative Chhoekyapa said he was grateful and encouraged that a small town in central Italy recognised the work of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and expressed concern for the plight of the Tibetan people. Over 20,000 people from all over the region attended the first day of the annual festival.
Curious visitors thronged the venue of a sand mandala being constructed by monks of Gaden monastery.
Mr Michele Iorio, President of the Regional Government, Italy, during a meeting with Representative Chhoekyapa on 28 July at Molise Region head office, said, “His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s message of peace and nonviolence is very important for the growth of civilizations.” Iorio also expressed his support for the middle way approach of the Tibetan government in exile, and lauded His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s initiatives to engage in talks with China for autonomy.
