Russia to heed Chinese concerns over Dalai Lama's visit

Moscow, May 27: The speaker of Russian Upper House Sergei Mironov has said the government will heed China's concerns while taking a decision on whether or not to permit the Dalai Lama to visit the country.

''As you know, Russia treats other countries' positions on delicate issues like this one with respect. The same approach will be taken to a decision on the Dalai Lama's visit to Russia,'' Mr Mironov said during a Moscow-Beijing TV link-up last night.

He said,''We should pay great attention to the People's Republic of China's concerns on this issue. We have always been governed by these principles in our good partnership and strategic relations.'' The Buddhist spiritual leader paid a visit to Russia in November 2002 to consecrate a temple in the Buddhist-dominated republic of Kalmykia.

Kalmykia and two other Buddhist republics of Buryatia and Tuva have been urging the Russian government to allow the Dalai Lama to visit the country.

Russia had refused to grant permission fearing it might spoil relations with China.

UNI