By KUNA,
Tokyo : Tibet’s exiled spiritual leader the Dalai Lama said Monday his approach to secure Tibetan autonomy from China has failed so far and that he plans to refrain from indicating his own view on the matter.
Speaking at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Japan in Tokyo, he also emphasized that Tibetans are not seeking separation or independence, but are seeking “genuine autonomy,” calling on Chinese leaders to allow Tibetans to freely practice religion and culture.
“My trust in the Chinese government has become thinner, thinner, thinner. Chinese suppression on Tibetans is increasing and I have to accept failure,” the Dalai Lama said.
“Since our approach failed to bring some positive change inside Tibet, the criticism (among Tibetans of my approach) is also increasing,” the 73-year-old Nobel Peace Prize laureate said.
“Now I remain completely neutral. If I say I prefer this way, then that may become a hindrance or obstacle to different opinions (and) feelings, out of devotion.
Therefore, I remain completely silent,” he said, referring to an upcoming emergency meeting among Tibetans to decide on a future strategy towards Beijing.
The meeting will be held from November 17 in the northern Indian town of Dharamsala, where the Dalai Lama’s government-in-exile is based.
Lawmakers and supporters from other nations will also be invited to the meeting.
The Dalai Lama, who arrived in Japan on Friday from New Delhi for a week-long visit, is scheduled to give speeches arranged by a Japanese Buddhist group and Tibetan supporters.
China has ruled the Buddhist region since 1951.
Beijing has repeatedly condemned the Dalai Lama for a role in the unrest in March, and accused him of leading a campaign to split Tibet from China.
The Dalai Lama, who fled into exile in northern India during a failed 1959 uprising, has denied the allegations.