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Dalai Lama Reps Visit China for Peace Talks

Trip marks first contact between sides since violent protests began

By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff

Posted May 3, 2008 9:30 AM CDT
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(Newser) – Representatives for the Dalai Lama head to China today for talks on restoring peace between the two sides, the BBC reports. The visit marks the first contact between the exiled leader and Chinese officials since pro-Tibet protests turned violent in March. The envoys will discuss the Dalai Lama’s “deep concerns about the Chinese authorities' handling of the situation” and work toward peace, his office said.

Meanwhile, Chinese state media launched fresh attacks on the Dalai Lama today. “Patriotic people of Tibet vehemently denounce the litany of crimes” he and his followers have committed, one paper said. Dalai Lama loyalists staged “a bloody violent event—their last bout of madness,” it added. The spiritual leader has rejected China’s claims, saying he wants more autonomy but not independence.

In this April 6, 2008 file photo, a police officer tackles a demonstrator during the Olympic torch relay in London. Pro-Tibet protests have mixed with pro-China backlash during the torch's journey.
In this April 6, 2008 file photo, a police officer tackles a demonstrator during the Olympic torch relay in London. Pro-Tibet protests have mixed with pro-China backlash during the torch's journey.   (AP Photo/Yui Mok, Pool, File)
The Dalai Lama looks on as an attendant serves him tea during a prayer session with leaders of the major sects of Tibetan Buddhism at the Tsuglakhang temple in Dharmsala, India, Saturday, May 3, 2008.
The Dalai Lama looks on as an attendant serves him tea during a prayer session with leaders of the major sects of Tibetan Buddhism at the Tsuglakhang temple in Dharmsala, India, Saturday, May 3, 2008....   (AP Photo/Ashwini Bhatia)
The Dalai Lama speaks during a conference attended by leaders of major sects in Tibetan Buddhism in Dharmsala, India, Friday, May 2, 2008.
The Dalai Lama speaks during a conference attended by leaders of major sects in Tibetan Buddhism in Dharmsala, India, Friday, May 2, 2008.   (AP Photo/Ashwini Bhatia)
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Tibet: no 'high expectations' for talks
AFP

China slams Dalai Lama
Reuters

China reports first Tibetan death in crisis
New York Times

 
China • protests • Tibet • Dalai Lama • Tibetan independence • peace talks

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