The Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama has congratulated Sushila Karki on her appointment as Nepal’s interim Prime Minister.
In a letter issued Saturday from his residence at Thekchen Choling in Dharamshala, the Tibetan spiritual leader acknowledged the longstanding bonds between the Nepalese and Tibetan peoples while expressing hopes for Nepal’s future under new leadership.
Karki, 73, was sworn in as Nepal’s interim prime minister late Friday following deadly youth-led protests that forced her predecessor to resign. The former Supreme Court chief justice became the first woman to head Nepal’s government on September 12, 2025.
In his congratulatory message, the Dalai Lama wrote: “As you know, the Nepalese and Tibetan peoples have historically enjoyed a close relationship. I am very grateful to the government and the people of Nepal for providing facilities for the rehabilitation of Tibetan refugees following their forced escape from Tibet after 1959”.
The spiritual leader noted that while Nepal’s Tibetan community remains relatively small, “I believe it has been making a notable contribution towards Nepal’s economic growth”.
Reflecting on Nepal’s progress, the Dalai Lama observed that “there has been significant development and increasing prosperity in Nepal in all spheres of life,” adding that such achievements are “all the more meaningful when they really improve the lives of poor and needy people”.
The message concluded with the Dalai Lama wishing Karki success “in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people of Nepal in these challenging times.”
Karki’s appointment comes as Nepal recovers from a deadly crackdown on youth-led protests that left more than 54 people dead and caused widespread destruction. The protests, led by Gen-Z demonstrators, specifically chose Karki to head the interim government.
As Nepal’s first female chief justice, Karki was widely praised for her integrity and her appointment aligns with protesters’ demands for an interim government free from existing corrupt political leaders.
The appointment has drawn international attention, with world leaders including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulating Karki on Saturday and stating that India is committed to peace and prosperity in the region.
Nepal is expected to hold new elections in March 2025 under Karki’s interim leadership as the country seeks to restore political stability following the recent upheaval.
A global media for the latest news, entertainment, music fashion, and more.
