Congressional leaders and President Bush paid tribute to the Dalai Lama, praised his message of non-violence and compassion, and presented him with the Congressional Gold Medal. Several speakers also spoke about the future of Tibet and called for more religious and cultural autonomy for the region. The Dalai Lama read his remarks in English, saying that the values of interdependent existence, non-violence, and compassion were great sources of power and that he was deeply grateful for the concern expressed for the people of Tibet. He also spoke about Tibetan autonomy and stressed that he did not seek independence from China, and called for dialog with Chinese leaders.

President Bush’s participation marked the first time a U.S. president had appeared at a public event with the Dalai Lama.