The Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of the Buddhists, met with the outgoing president and the cabinet of the Tibetan government in exile and commended them for their work.

In a virtual meeting, the Dalai Lama spoke with the 15th cabinet led by the outgoing president Dr Lobsang Sangay and thanked them for their contribution to the advancement of the Tibetan community. According to the website of the Central Tibetan Administration, he expressed his appreciation over the last ten years of service to the cause of Tibet.

Dr Lobsang Sangay, as the president of the Tibetan government in exile, also known as the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), served two terms of five years each. “Lobsang Sangay did a commendable work these past ten years,” the Dalai Lama said and urged the outgoing cabinet to continue to work for the Tibetan cause.

In the multi-phase Tibetan elections, which concluded in the middle of this month, the Tibetan diaspora across the world elected a new parliament and a new president. The Tibetan constitution does not allow a third term.

The Dalai Lama urged Dr Sangay to take on more responsibility towards the revival of ancient Indian wisdom, which remains one of His Holiness’ four principal commitments. He once again re-affirmed to live for more than 110 years with the hope and aspiration to serve the Tibetan interest, and humanity at large. “If I live long, it will be of benefit to the Tibetans inside and outside of Tibet.”

The Dalai Lama also promised to continually engage virtually from his residence regarding teachings and talks. He presented a statue of Buddha each to Sikyong Dr Sangay and his cabinet.

Separately, on Wednesday, Dr Sangay and his cabinet gave their final address to the Tibetan public. Dr Sangay said: “I’m committed to ensuring the smooth transition of power to President-elect Penpa Tsering. It is the responsibility of every Tibetan to support him in his global advocacy efforts for Tibet and the Tibetan people. I wish the incoming Sikyong and his Kashag all the best.”

Dr Sangay added that he remains hopeful of the younger generation of Tibetans in the diaspora spread across the world and has been greatly inspired by them.