Dalai Lama calls for dialogue to resolve Sino-Indian border dispute

Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, today called for talks between Beijing and New Delhi to resolve the long-standing Sino-India border dispute.

"Actually, the Tibetan problem is also a problem of India. Sooner or later you have to solve these problems not by force but by understanding and talks. Understanding comes through talk, through personal contacts. It's very important," he said.

The Dalai Lama also stressed that closer ties between China and India is crucial not only for maintaining peace and economic prosperity but also for preserving Buddhism.

When asked to comment on the demonstrations by the Tibetans to protest against Chinese President Xi Jinping's present visit to India, the Dalai Lama said, "Of course I think this is a bit delicate question and a very very political question. I am already retired from the political responsibility but I think basically Tibetans are quite law abiding sort of community. "

Describing the current Chinese President as an open-minded person, he added, "Xi Jinping is a more open minded person, his sort of approach is more realistic."

The Chinese President three-day visit to India has seen continued protests from members of the Tibetan Youth Congress.