There’s been a change in His Holiness’s schedule. From a press release that just arrived in my inbox.
The following statement is issued to all NC media on Tuesday, January 9, 2018 on behalf of Raleigh Mayor Nancy McFarlane and the Local Organizing Committee for the Visit of His Holiness the Dalai Lama:
His Holiness the Dalai Lama (HHDL) has informed Mayor Nancy McFarlane in a letter that because of a change in his schedule, he has
all travel to the United States in 2018. He left open the possibility of visiting the U.S. next year. In her response, Mayor McFarlane, who last year announced a visit by HHDL was in the works, said, “We remain hopeful he will grace us with his presence at a future date, and Raleigh is committed to making such a visit an enriching experience with lasting benefits for our community.”
For context, please see the text of both letters below:
Dear Mayor McFarlane,
It is with deep regret that I inform you of a change in His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s schedule, obliging him to cancel the majority of his travels abroad, including the United States of America.
We understand that there are many plans already in place to support Raleigh’s Compassionate City designation, and His Holiness looks very much forward to support these wonderful initiatives.
Best wishes.
Yours sincerely,
Tenzin Talklha
Secretary to
His Holiness the Dalai Lama
Your Holiness, The 14th Dalai Lama,
The citizens of Raleigh, North Carolina, are honored that you plan to visit our city and respect your decision to delay all visits to the United States until after 2018. We will continue, with the residents of Raleigh, to forward our commitment to promote the fundamental principles that you have championed such as compassion for all sentient beings and secular ethics, with a particular focus on the youth.
We remain hopeful you will grace us with your presence at a future date and are committed to making such a visit an enriching experience with lasting benefits.
With gratitude,
The Honorable Mayor Nancy McFarlane