Strasbourg, July 9 - The President of the European Parliament, Hans-Gert Pöttering, "Given that these talks have to date proved inconclusive, I have decided not to attend the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games.

"But I very much hope that the dialogue between the envoys of the Dalai Lama and the Chinese authorities will soon be pursued in a constructive way aimed at achieving results.

The Dalai Lama has always called for non violent protest and has rejected calls for Tibetan independence. He has instead proposed the middle way of cultural autonomy and religious freedom for Tibet and has never questioned China's territorial integrity. He has the full support of the European Parliament for his approach.

We expect that China will respect its own public commitments to human rights and minority rights, announced when the decision to allow China to organise the Games was taken. This is a great opportunity for China to open itself up to the world and to demonstrate that it is committed to internationally-recognised fundamental rights." more..>

Paris, July 9 - China's ambassador to France has warned French President Nicolas Sarkozy against meeting with Tibet's exiled spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama.

Last week, he said his decision will depend on progress in talks between representatives of the Dalai Lama and Chinese officials. more..>

Dharamshala, July 9 - His Holiness the Dalai Lama said Tuesday the Chinese government has never understood the heritage, culture and traditions of Tibetans. This is the root cause of all problems, but they are holding me responsible for this very fact. more..>

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