11th Panchen Lama visits Tibet exhibition

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Source: CCTV.com | 05-05-2008 13:12

The 11th Panchen Lama -- Erdeni Gyaincain Norbu -- has visited a large-scale exhibition entitled "Tibet, the Past and the Present" in Beijing.

Bainqen Erdini Qoigyijabu (C), the 11th Panchen Lama, attends an exhibition about Tibet in Beijing, capital of China, May 4, 2008. (Xinhua/Liu Jiansheng)

He says Tibet's stability and happiness has been hard-earned and should be cherished. He also called on religious circles in China to uphold patriotism and contribute to the country's unity and prosperity.

On Sunday, the young religious leader was shown highlights of the 160 material exhibits and more than 400 pictures at the Nationalities Cultural Palace.

The first part of the exhibition shows the History of Tibet and Feudal Serfdom in Old Tibet. And the second part displays -- the New Tibet, Changing With Each Passing Day. The exhibition conveys the backwardness of Old Tibet as well as the development and

progress of New Tibet. It also highlights the inseparable, historical links between Tibet and the Chinese nation.

The Panchen Lama listened carefully to introductions by staff workers at the exhibition, as he visited the various exhibition areas.

The 11th Panchen Lama says facts show that prosperity in today's Tibet -- results from joint efforts made by all ethnic groups in the region. And that the support of all of the Chinese people and the central government -- has also led to Tibet's prosperity.

The 11th Panchen Lama said, "I have been praying for the country's prosperity and the unity and happiness of people of all ethnic groups. I have also been praying for the success of the Beijing Olympic Games. Under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, Tibet will become more prosperous and the Tibetan people will enjoy greater felicity in the future."

Panchen Lama says the Tibetan people's hard-earned, happy life should be cherished. And those in religious circles should uphold patriotism, cherish their religion and abide by the law and commandments. He also expressed his wish that those in religious circles can contribute to the region's stability and development, as well as China's unity and unification.

Editor:Zhang Ning