His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Tokyo
On Chinese government, His Holiness said that China is the most populated nation with a long rich history and culture. It has become a great economy also. Now, if the People`s Republic of China wants to play more constructive role at international level, trust and respect is very important. Trying to keep everything as State secret and doing away with press freedom is harmful to China in the long run. 1.3 billion Chinese people have the right to know the truth, they also have the ability to judge right from wrong. Distorting information is immoral.
His Holiness appreciated Premier Wen Jiabao`s recent comments including most recently in Malaysia regarding political reform and democracy and said that he fully supports the Premier`s initiatives.
Following the press briefing, His Holiness presided over the mass prayer assembly at the Temple where some over four thousand people have gathered. Mr. Lhakpa Tsohko, Representative at Liaison Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama for Japan & East Asia made a brief introductory statement on behalf of the organizers.
His Holiness along with the Tibetan monks recited prayers including Sherab Nyingpo (Heart sutra). Later the Japanese monks and the general public recited the Japanese version of the Heart Sutra, (Hangyashingyo).
Ven. Okamoto, Chief Abbot of the Gokokuji Temple expressed his happiness over being able to pray for the victims of the recent disaster with His Holiness. He thanked His Holiness for taking time out to share the grief and sorrow of the people here. Chief Abbot of Tsurumi Sotoshu Temple Ven. Eigawa also thanked His Holiness the Dalai Lama for his prayers and encouragement.
In his public address, His Holiness said that as soon as he heard about the disaster in Japan, he felt a great urge to be with the people to console and share their grief, and that he was very happy to get this opportunity to attend this mass prayer for the people who had lost their lives and those who had lost their dear ones, and those who are displaced. He advised the Japanese people to look forward and not to lose hope. “I am sure you people can do it, you have done this in the past after World War II. Disasters and difficult times teach us many valuable lesson, we need to reflect on these.” His Holiness said.
His Holiness`s words were received by many in tears and joy. Many were seen with folded hands in deep prayers. Many made prostration and many were seen with Khata, Tibetan scarves.
Ven. Hayashi of Japanese Buddhist Association in his concluding remarks thanked His Holiness for his time and said that each time His Holiness visits Japan, people here are greatly inspired and energized. “Prayers have profound effect and energy; we are greatly honored to have His Holiness the Dalai Lama preside over this 49th day of Buddhist formal mourning period. The fact that so many people have gathered will be a great inspiration to the people in the affected regions in particular and the Japanese public in general.” He said.
