Chairwoman of the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights Heidi Hautala visits Dharamsala, the seat  of the exiled Tibetan government, between 13th-15th February. Hautala, who has been working 20 years with the Tibetan cause has an audience with the Dalai Lama on 13th February. [:]
 
– People’s Republic of China must fully respect the Tibetan people’s fundamental human rights and freedoms. The ninth round of Sino-Tibetan dialogue has produced elements to build on. I wish this dialogue to be continued on an equal basis. I also welcome the suggestions of the Fifth Tibet Work Forum (18th-20th of January) to further improve the livelihood of Tibetans in the Tibet Autonomous Region and all  Tibetan areas, especially the rural regions, says Hautala.
 
–  It is unfortunate that there has been no progress in the human rights situation in the Tibetan areas. As the situation remains grim, which emphasises the need of an independent international investigation on the development of the human rights situation, especially on the events of March 2008. This is the demand of the Tibetan negotiators and also of the European Parliament. In a resolution adopted by Members of European Parliament on 12 Mach 2009, the Members urged the Chinese government to negotiate with the Dalai Lama with a view to reaching a comprehensive political agreement. This is the most important topic for me to be discussed with the Dalai Lama, states Chairwoman Hautala.
 
– This is a statement of support for justice and truth with a sincere conviction that the Tibetan and Chinese peoples can find a way to coexist with mutual respect. The persecution and repression of Tibetans has a special character since it endangers the whole existence of the nation and culture. However, it is important to realize that the answer to those threats lies within the potential changes towards democracy of China in its entirety, reminds Hautala.
 
– The European Union has to have a more unified, strong and coherent EU position on the issue of Tibet. The approach can’t be based solely on “quiet diplomacy”. We need also clear demands to the Chinese government for example to respect the standards of a free and fair trial with the accused of the events of 10 March 2008. The EU Commission could seek co-operation with the Chinese leadership on improving the economical and social situation in Tibet. An EU Special Representative to Tibet would clarify our common message, states Hautala. 
 
Heidi Hautala is also going to discuss environmental issues with the Dalai Lama. Tibet is the ‘world’s third pole’ because it contains the biggest glaciers outside of the Arctic and Antarctic. The melting glaciers could be catastrophic.
 
– We need to integrate the Tibetans, especially Tibetan nomads, in the decision making and management of the area’s natural resources. International co-operation in governance of the Tibetan plateau’s water resources is needed.