Beijing, China - China on Thursday opposed Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama's visit to Latin American countries and asked foreign governments to be on "high alert" against his political activities and bid for "Tibetan independence" on the "pretext of religion."
"We are opposed to the secessionist movement of the Dalai Lama in the international arena on the pretext of religion. We hope that relevant countries can stay on high alert," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao told reporters in Beijing.
"The Dalai Lama is not a purely religious figure. He is a political exile, engaged in activities in splitting the motherland," he said while commenting on the Dalai's ongoing visits to South American countries like Argentina and Peru.
"The Dalai clique has never abandoned its stance on seeking Tibetan independence or separating the motherland. The Chinese central government has a strong position on that," he said.
When asked to comment on the latest unrest in Lhasa, Tibet's capital, Liu declined to comment. "I have no specific information on the question you asked. You may refer your question to relevant authorities."