Statement from the World Peace Prize Awarding Council
Washington D.C., Nov 12, 2013 – We who are engaged in the arduous task of promoting peace in a world wracked by war are loathe to give even a moment to respond to the baseless claims of The Phoenix Weekly and the likes about the World Peace Prize and H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III. However, for anyone who is remotely interested, we refer you to the recognition of support for World Peace Prize by the U.S. Congress in the Resolution introduced by the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Robert Menendez:
“Whereas the World Peace Prize is a prestigious award presented by the World Peace Corps Mission that celebrates individuals who have contributed tremendously to peace and enlightenment for humanity;
Whereas past recipients of the World Peace Prize include President Ronald Reagan of the United States, President Abdurrahman Wahid of Indonesia, and President Nakamura of Palau;
Whereas in 2010, the World Peace Prize Awarding Council recognized His Holiness Dorje Chang Buddha III for his devotion to an immensely wide scope of humanitarian activities directed at individuals from different communities throughout the world;
Resolved, That the Senate (1) commends the World Peace Corps Mission for advancing peace, justice, and inter-religious collaborations; and (2) celebrates the World Peace Award and the recipients of the World Peace Award.”
His Holiness Dorje Chang Buddha III has been enduring ongoing defamation, slander and destruction to his reputation. As evidence China at one point requested for the Interpol to issue a Red Notice for his arrest. The Interpol has made thorough investigation to determine the baseless nature of such request. Upon China’s own investigation, they have determined non-existence of any crime and hence formally requested for the withdrawal of the Red Notice. In October 2008, the 72nd session of the Commission for the Control of Interpol’s Files withdrew the Red Notice and the entire case against His Holiness.
We do not idly choose the recipients of our Peace Prizes. It was after due diligence that H.H. Dorje Change Buddha III was selected to receive our 2010 award for his outstanding humanitarian efforts. The international community enthusiastically applauded our choice. We too are aware of the continuing efforts of defamation directed at His Holiness in attempting to undermine his worldwide acclaim as a spiritual leader. The Phoenix Weekly story and the likes are examples of destructive campaign being waged against him and the work of those whose who seek to bring a lasting peace to a tumultuous world.
We are concerned that the groundless defamations are spurious attempts to undermine the public’s respect for truth, peace and justice. Such libelous behavior should not be tolerated by any ethical and responsible organization. The World Peace Prize upholds the true spirit of this historical award and hereby expresses the depth of respect for facts and forthrightness.
