China condemns U.S. engagement with Dalai Lama, decries interference in Tibetan Affairs
- In Reports
- 08:12 PM, Aug 22, 2024
- Myind Staff
On 22nd August, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry firmly reiterated China's firm opposition to any nation permitting the Dalai Lama to visit under any circumstances, in a statement.
Senior officials from the U.S. State Department and the White House met with the Dalai Lama on Wednesday in New York, where they "reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to advancing the human rights of Tibetans," according to a statement from the State Department.
The meeting with the 89-year-old exiled spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism was anticipated to provoke a strong reaction from China that views the Dalai Lama as a dangerous separatist and opposes any official contact with him from other countries.
Chinese Foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning at a regular press briefing stated, "China has made solemn protests with the U.S.” "We don't allow the Dalai Lama to engage in political separatist activities in the U.S."
Last month, China voiced strong opposition to a U.S. law signed by President Joe Biden, which urges Beijing to address Tibet's demands for greater autonomy. In response, China vowed to "firmly defend" its interests.
The Chinese foreign ministry condemned the "appointment of a so-called special coordinator of Tibetan issues," describing it as interference in China's internal affairs.
In 1959, the Dalai Lama fled to India after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in Tibet and he has been visiting the US since June for medical treatment. China has been controlling Tibet since 1951 and considers the Dalai Lama a separatist, despite his insistence that he only seeks greater autonomy for Tibet, not independence.
Image source: ANI
Comments