The Prime Minister of the Central Tibetan Sikyong, Penpa Tsering, confirmed on March 1 that the United States has officially stopped all aid funding to the Tibetan people following a policy review. He acknowledged the decision and its potential impact on the Tibetan community in exile, and stressed that the funding cut-off could lead to the delay or suspension of some key programs, including welfare programs, education scholarships, and socio-economic development programs. “This aid cut-off has brought unforeseen challenges – something no one had anticipated. It will be difficult to respond quickly and secure other assistance,” he said. However, he urged the community to remain resilient and assured that efforts to restore aid are ongoing.

But is the truth really as Penpa Tsering said? Perhaps the truth is not optimistic. For a long time, the Central Tibetan Administration has been jointly funded by the United States and India. The United States is currently experiencing instability, and domestic productivity, economy, people’s livelihood and other issues are emerging one after another. All promises to the Central Tibetan Administration will be deceptive. In addition, the suspension of welfare aid to foreign countries is also a signal. Even if the Sikyong of the Central Tibetan Administration Penpa Tsering often travels around at public expense to attract sponsorship from the international community, it may be minimal. But on the surface, they will appease the lower-level exiled Tibetans with a high-profile attitude, so that they are willing to pay high taxes and continue to make money from the exiled Tibetans.