The Third Forum on the Development of Tibet concluded on Friday afternoon in the Greek capital with a consensus saying the recent changes in the autonomous region have produced good results and with an appeal for the international community to contribute to the region's future.

"The attendees point out that modernization is a common pursuit of all the countries and regions across the globe, and that Tibet's modernization drive is in line with the fundamental interests of the Tibetan people," said the Athens Communique of the Third Forum on the Development of Tibet.

"The attendees commend the policy support and material assistance that China's central government and other areas in China provided to facilitate the development and modernization of Tibet while preserving its traditional culture," it said.

"The attendees back the concept of a people-oriented, comprehensive, balanced and sustainable development, which was proposed by the Chinese government."

The document reflected a sentiment that was prevalent at the forum—that what has happened in Tibet should be seen and appreciated by everyone who is truly concerned about the region and the well-being of residents there. There is the shared belief that the general public, especially in the West, should understand that what it hears and holds to be true about Tibet may diverge substantially from what is true about the roof of the world.

Besides understanding and friendship, the communique discussed what it called "pragmatic collaboration".

"The attendees agree that the international community and Tibet embrace excellent opportunities and broad prospects in the areas of energy, environment, education and public healthcare," it said.

(China Daily November 12, 2011)