Howard Meets Dalai Lama Despite China Warning

The Tibetan leader said before meeting Howard that he would argue for meaningful negotiations with Beijing on the future of his Himalayan homeland.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Shen Guofang told a news briefing in Beijing: We hope the Australian government can rectify its erroneous stand and actions concerning this problem.

The Dalai Lama is not a purely religious leader. He is a political exile who engages in splitting the motherland, Shen said.

The Dalai Lama said after his meeting with Howard that the talks had been very positive. Asked if it would help the Tibetan cause, he replied: I don't know. The Tibet issue is not easy.

 

But a statement from Howard's office made no mention of politics. It said the meeting had focused on religion, education and Australia's football finals this weekend.

The two men had a relaxed discussion, largely about values and attitudes and the importance of study and learning, Howard's office said.

The Dalai Lama's trip to Australia was interference in China's internal affairs...and will undoubtedly affect Sino-Australian ties, including political ties as well as trade and economic cooperation, Shen said.

We hope Australian leaders could fully realise the gravity of this issue, he said.