China Opposes U.S. Meeting with Dalai Lama, Reasserts Stand on Tibet

China expressed strong opposition to the recent meeting between U.S. officials and the Dalai Lama. The Chinese foreign ministry condemned the visit, labeling the spiritual leader a separatist, and criticized the appointment of a special coordinator for Tibetan issues as interference in internal affairs. This interaction is likely to strain U.S.-China relations further.

China has firmly opposed any country allowing the Dalai Lama to visit under any pretext, as stated by a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry on Thursday.

In New York, senior U.S. State Department and White House officials met with the Dalai Lama on Wednesday, reaffirming the U.S. commitment to advancing human rights for Tibetans, according to a State Department release. The meeting with the 89-year-old exiled Tibetan spiritual leader was anticipated to inflame China, which deems him a separatist and disapproves of any official contact with him.

"China has lodged stern protests with the U.S.", Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning declared during a regular press briefing. "We do not permit the Dalai Lama to engage in political separatist activities in the U.S." Last month, China expressed vigorous opposition to a U.S. law signed by President Joe Biden urging Beijing to resolve Tibet's autonomy demands, pledging to "firmly defend" its national interests.

Moreover, the Chinese foreign ministry criticized the U.S. for appointing a special coordinator for Tibetan issues, considering it an interference in China's internal affairs.

(With inputs from agencies.)