Not seeking independence of Tibet: Dalai Lama

Washington, June 16: Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama on Wednesday told US President Barack Obama that he is not seeking independence of Tibet from China and hoped that talks with the Chinese government would resume soon, the White House said.

"The Dalai Lama stated that he is not seeking independence for Tibet and hopes that dialogue between his representatives and the Chinese government will resume," the White House said.

"The President and the Dalai Lama agreed on the importance of a constructive and productive relationship between the United States and China," said the statement issued after the two Noble laureates met at the Maple Room of the White House, which was described as a personal meeting.

During the meeting, the Dalai Lama condoled Obama over shooting in Orlando on Sunday. Obama commended the Dalai Lama for his efforts to promote compassion, empathy, and respect for others.

The two leaders discussed the situation for Tibetans in China, the White House said. Obama expressed support for the preservation of Tibet's unique religious, cultural, and linguistic traditions and the equal protection of human rights of Tibetans in China.

President lauded the Dalai Lama's commitment to peace: White House

"The President lauded the Dalai Lama's commitment to peace and nonviolence and expressed support for the Dalai Lama's 'Middle Way' approach," the White House said.

Obama in his meeting encouraged meaningful and direct dialogue between the Dalai Lama and his representatives with Chinese authorities to lower tensions and resolve differences.

"In this context, the President reiterated the longstanding US position that Tibet is a part of the People's Republic of China, and the US does not support Tibetan independence," it said, adding that the two agreed on the importance of a constructive and productive relationship between the US and China.

PTI