2009-03-17 || From: People's Daily

Syroeskin, chief researcher of the Presidential Strategy Institute of Kazakhstan, highly praised the protection of traditional Tibetan culture in Alma-Ata, capital of Kazakhstan, recently.

Following is his remarks:

"As an expert on international issues, I have had many opportunities to visit China and have been to many places in this country. I would never forget my trip to Tibet in June 2007, where I experienced the unique ethnic culture and its charm beyond description."

"I visited almost all the monasteries in Lhasa. I saw with my own eys every architecture and statue well protected and renovated. People there enjoyed full freedom in religious belief.

Syroeskin, chief researcher of the Presidential Strategy Institute of Kazakhstan, photo from People's Daily.

"Pilgrims rolling prayer wheels around the Potala Palace, prayer streamers upon which people lay best wishes, Mani Piles of magic power, villages with distinctive architectural features - all this constituted the traditional Tibetan culture."

"I think the ethnic culture and religious customs in Tibet have been inherited effectively.'

"Moreover, I was deeply impressed by the well-developed infrastructure in Tibet. Roads to every scenic spot are wide; cell phone signals can cover any corner of this region. Like other foreign visitors, I also watched the Tibetan opera. Though I did not understand the Tibetan language, yet I could feel that the traditional Tibetan culture was carried on naturally. While meeting the local people, I found the Tibetans hardworking, kind and hospitable. Like the Han people, they sincerely hope for Tibet's prosperity and stability, as well as a happy life for the Tibetan people."

"Tibet used to be place full of mysteries for me. Influenced by the western media, I once doubted if the traditional culture had been well protected there. But now, what I want to say to all of you is that the Tibetan ethnic culture is in a good state of preservation. I hope those who really care about Tibet will be able to go there and solve the 'mystery' in their hearts."

(Translator & editor: kristen zhang )