Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - In writing to congratulate Shinzo Abe on his re-election as Prime Minister of Japan, His Holiness the Dalai Lama expressed confidence that he would live up to the hope and trust placed in him by the Japanese people.
He wrote, “In these times of uncertainty and upheaval in many parts of the world, it is vitally important that earnest and concerted efforts are made to resolve problems through dialogue and diplomacy. This year's award of the Nobel Peace Prize to the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) is a powerful message marking recognition of the urgency of putting an end to the threat that these weapons pose to humanity.
“Your call for worldwide nuclear disarmament during the commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the first atomic bomb being dropped on Hiroshima was a similar step in the right direction. I hope to see vigorous efforts being made to achieve a world without nuclear weapons.”
His Holiness also expressed satisfaction that India and Japan are developing very close ties. He wrote that it is natural that these two great nations, the largest democracy and the most industrialised democracy in Asia, should have a special relationship.
In conclusion, His Holiness expressed appreciation not only that he has been able to visit Japan regularly over the years, but also that Japanese people from all walks of life have shown interest and enthusiasm in his efforts to promote fundamental human values and religious harmony.
