Press Release on the Thaliban Destruction

Author: Karmapa Thaye Dorje

March 5th, 2001

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I condemn the demolition of the Tallest Buddha Statue in the world and the other sacred Buddhist Relics in Afghanistan. I can only describe the act of demolition as an inhuman act on the part of the Thaliban. I wish to seek the interference of the International Agencies and Governments of all the nation to seek appropriate steps to put to stop this act of Vandalism.
The act of destruction of such a rich cultural heritage is not a destruction of a particular religion but the destruction of mankind. This act could only have been done by those who are uncivilized and have no feeling for others and especially to Buddhist in particular for whom these relics mean so much.
I would like to make an appeal to all, to condemn this act of "Vandalism" by asserting appropriate pressure to stop the further destruction of these relics.

On my part, I have been and will make special prayers for the protection of these valuable relics and hope that the people of Afghanistan would realize the repercussion from these act on effort to bring peace in this Universe.

His Holiness Karmapa Trinley Thaye Dorje