Hereunder follows an abstract of UNPO General Secretary, Mr. Erkin Alptekin’s message of condolences presented during a memorial service for Mr. Gyaltsen Gyaltak held in Zürich, Switzerland on 23 February 2002. Mr. Gyaltak passed away on 25 January 2002.

“It is with great sadness that I have learned of the passing away of our beloved friend and comrade Gyaltsen Gyaltag. For many years his unwavering commitment and support towards the struggle for the freedom of Tibetans has greatly encouraged all of us.

For many years Gyaltssen distinguished himself as an outstanding leader of his people and was greatly respected as a wise and thoughtful person. To his wife, Phuntsok Dolkar, and his two children, I wish to convey my deepest condolences. Gyaltsen will be dearly missed by myself and all the members of UNPO who have met and worked with him through the years.

Gyaltsen was a beacon of hope to all of us. Now he has departed us forever, but remembrance of his caring and decent personality will remain with us forever.”