April 25, 2008
No. 98
The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement welcoming the Government of China's decision to meet with a representative of the Dalai Lama:
"China's initiative offers the prospect of reducing tensions in Tibet and neighbouring areas, and represents an opportunity for China to achieve results through meaningful dialogue.
"Canada has consistently advocated substantive dialogue between the Government of China and the Dalai Lama, or his designated representatives, to resolve ongoing differences. Given the recent developments in Tibet, Canada has emphasized the increasingly urgent need for such dialogue. We urge the Government of China to pursue this opportunity."
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