China Opposes U.S. Honoring the Dalai Lama

The Chinese government says it resolutely opposes the U.S. Congress’ decision to award a gold medal to exiled Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama.

Saying his country has made solemn representations to the United States on the issue, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao said, We hope relevant country could stick to the correct position on Tibet issue and do not use this issue to interfere with China’s internal affairs, the state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

The Tibetan leader, winner of the Nobel Peace Price, is scheduled to receive the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest congressional civilian award, Wednesday in Washington. He is scheduled to meet U.S. President George W. Bush the previous day, the BBC reported Friday.

President Bush and first lady Laura Bush plan to attend the Congressional ceremony, the report said.

The Dalai Lama fled Tibet in 1959 after an uprising against Chinese occupation failed. He has been living in India since then.