Q: It is reported that Swedish Prime Minister said he would meet with the Dalai Lama on May 17. Does the Chinese side have any reaction to that?


A: The position of the Chinese Government on the question of the Dalai Lama is consistent and clear: the Dalai Lama is a political exile long engaged in activities aimed at separating the motherland. We firmly oppose any official figure of any country or region inviting or meeting in whatever name or whatever form the Dalai Lama which provides forums for political activities for the Dalai Lama and his clique. Regardless of the solemn representations of the Chinese side, Sweden insists on allowing the Dalai Lama to visit and raising the level of reception. We hereby express our strong dissatisfaction. We hope the Swedish side will take seriously the representations made by the Chinese side, respect the feelings of the Chinese people, value the current favorable atmosphere for and development trend of bilateral relations, and prudently and properly handle this matter.