China blasts Obama's Dalai Lama meeting
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 17 July 2011 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, China blasts Obama's Dalai Lama meeting, 17 July 2011, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/4e39055cc.html [accessed 23 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
July 17, 2011
China has blasted U.S. President Barack Obama's meeting with the Dalai Lama, saying it interfered in China's internal affairs.
The Foreign Ministry said "solemn representations" have been lodged in both Washington and at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing.
The move came after Obama met the Tibetan spiritual leader at the White House on July 16.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Ma Zhaoxu said in the statement that "this act seriously interfered in China's internal affairs, hurt the feelings of the Chinese people and damaged Sino-U.S. relations."
The Chinese government views the Dalai Lama as a figure advocating Tibetan independence and resents him meeting world leaders.
The Dalai Lama says he does not seek independence for Tibet but wants greater autonomy for the region within China.
compiled from agency reports
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
