Canadian PM meets Dalai Lama despite protest by China

Although on Monday's 40-minute meeting at Harper's Centre Block office was described as "non-political" by the Dalai Lama, activists said the it was a "fantastic gesture" by the Canadian prime minister.

The Tibetan, who is an honorary Canadian citizen, said China should view Canada as a "model" of multiracial, multicultural, multi-religious country, and could learn from the country "how to work for promotion of unity on the basis of mutual respect".

While describing Harper as a strong defender of human rights, The Dalai Lama said before the meeting that he disagreed with the war in Afghanistan, but the subject was not brought up during the meeting between the two.

"Issues like that were not discussed," Canada's Secretary of State for Multiculturalism, Jason Kenney said.

As expected, the Chinese embassy in Ottawa issued a statement critical of Harper's public meeting with the Dalai Lama, who they refer to as a political figure engaged in "secessionist" activities.

"It is an interference in China's internal affairs. Both sides could be hurt," an embassy official said.

China says the Dalai Lama is seeking independence of Tibet, while the Tibetan leader maintains that he is only seeking autonomy. - DDNEWS