Tenzin Nyidon
DHARAMSHALA, Oct. 19: The former President of the Tibetan government in exile, Dr. Lobsang Sangay, during his visit to Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital, highlighted parallels between the struggles of Tibet and Ukraine against colonialist aggressors. In an interview with Kyiv Post, Dr. Sangay emphasised the shared challenges faced by both nations— Tibet under China’s ongoing occupation and Ukraine resisting Russia’s invasion. He stressed that in both cases, the aggressors are targeting not only land but also the cultural identity and resources of these countries.
The former political leader detailed how China has systematically sought to erode traditional Tibetan culture by imposing Han Chinese cultural norms. “Tibet was invaded, and 98% of our monasteries were destroyed, but today they are being rebuilt. Tibetans continue to resist forced assimilation. Even now, speaking Tibetan or wearing traditional Tibetan dress is an act of resistance, as is visiting monasteries, which is why Tibetans continue to do so ‘constantly,’” he explained.
He also acknowledged that while Ukraine is an internationally recognised state, its challenges differ from those faced by Tibet. However, he pointed out the commonality in their experiences—both Tibetans and Ukrainians are dealing with imperialism and colonial forces, such as China and Russia, that exploit their lands for natural resources.
Dr. Sangay further highlighted how, in the case of Tibet, many Western governments turn a blind eye to China’s actions. He drew a parallel to Ukraine, where European countries have softened sanctions on Russian steel and refused to penalise metal magnates who supply not only Europe but also the Russian military.
He noted the economic dimensions of Russia’s and China’s interests in these occupied regions. “Russia’s control of the Donbas led to the loss of 80% of Ukraine’s coal reserves, which are essential for steel production, where Ukraine is a major producer. Similarly, China’s exploitation of Tibet is economically motivated—80% of China’s cotton comes from Xinjiang; 75% of its lithium is sourced from Tibet, along with 50% of its copper, gold, and uranium.” Dr. Sangay emphasised that both Ukraine and Tibet have seen millions of lives disrupted and cultures threatened as imperialists seek to plunder their resources.
In closing, he conveyed a message of solidarity to the people of Ukraine, stating, “Your success would be our success. Ukraine is standing up for what is right—a battle between good and evil. It is time for the good side to win and the bad side to lose.”
