September 20, 2022, Ottawa – In a recent letter addressed to Mr. Ali Ehsassi, Chair of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development, Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly reaffirmed Canada’s steadfast commitment to facilitating substantial and meaningful dialogue between the representatives of the Chinese government and the Tibetan people. The letter, received by the committee, highlights Canada’s dedication to human rights and diplomatic engagement as integral components of its foreign policy.
The letter commences with gratitude towards the Foreign Affairs Committee for its report titled “Resumption of the Sino-Tibetan Dialogue.” Foreign Minister Joly expressed her appreciation for the committee’s efforts and conveyed the Government of Canada’s endorsement of the committee’s recommendation advocating for dialogue between representatives of the Tibetan people and the Government of the People’s Republic of China.
Canada’s position emphasizes a neutral stance on the choice of interlocutors for the dialogue, allowing the Chinese government and Tibetan representatives to determine their participants. The promotion and safeguarding of human rights are identified as key pillars of Canadian foreign policy, forming the foundation of its interactions with China. This commitment extends to various forms of engagement, including bilateral exchanges, multilateral forums, advocacy, and diplomatic dialogue.
The core of Canada’s stance revolves around its call for a constructive dialogue that leads to mutual understanding between Chinese and Tibetan representatives. The letter acknowledges the Dalai Lama’s “Middle Way” approach, which seeks genuine autonomy within China for Tibet, while rejecting the current status quo. This approach is seen as a viable means to establish stability, coexistence, and autonomy through dialogue.
The letter also acknowledges Canada’s consistent advocacy for meaningful dialogue between the Chinese government and the Dalai Lama or representatives of the Tibetan people. It provides historical context by referencing the past “Sino-Tibet dialogue” process, which concluded in 2010. This historical background underscores Canada’s commitment to facilitating discussions that address issues acceptable to both parties.
Foreign Minister Joly also highlights Canada’s unwavering dedication to monitoring and addressing the human rights situation in Tibet. The letter cites instances of Canada’s advocacy in multilateral fora, where it challenged China on human rights issues at the UN Human Rights Council. Canada’s advocacy extends to seeking unhindered access to the Tibet Autonomous Region for international entities and diplomats.
In conclusion, the letter reiterates the Government of Canada’s gratitude to the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development for its diligence. The letter underscores Canada’s resolute commitment to supporting a substantial and meaningful dialogue between representatives of the Chinese government and the Tibetan people, as a cornerstone of its diplomatic efforts.