
Despite opposition from the Chinese government, U.S. President Barack Obama resolutely met with the Dalai Lama at the White House during the latter's visit to the U.S. People are aware that the majority of western countries' political leaders have persistently met with the Dalai Lama at the price of undermining their relationship with China. So, what are the reasons behind their actions?
The reasons held by European and U.S. leaders are generally the same. Firstly, they view the Dalai Lama as a "world-renowned cultural and religious figure." Secondly, as leaders of sovereign states, they have the right to meet anybody they wish without the approval of China. In fact, the 2 paradoxical reasons are fully groundless.
It has to be admitted that the "Nobel Prize for Peace" laurel does bestow the Dalai Lama an aura. However, as everyone knows, the "Nobel Prize for Peace" is awarded in accordance with western values, so it contains intense subjective political characteristics and lacks objectiveness.
Western countries' receiving the Dalai Lama as a distinguished guest is simply aimed at containing China. The White House stated after the meeting, that Obama expressed strong support for Tibet's genuine autonomy when meeting with the Dalai Lama. The words revealed the hidden essence of the meeting that what they discussed involved not only politics, but also China's domestic issues, instead of the so-called cultural or religious exchanges. If the meeting content was really just cultural or religious exchanges, the talk could have been conducted in cultural or religious site rather than the White House, in a fair and square manner.
Generally, it is unnecessary for a state leader to ask for a foreign government’s approval to meet with someone, but it is not absolutely right. For instance, would Chinese, Russian or other countries' leaders meet with Osama Bin Laden and Al-Qaeda leaders without considering the feelings of the U.S. administration and its people?
Since the U.S. once stated that it will maintain a positive, constructive, and comprehensive relationship with China, it cannot be indifferent to the feelings of Chinese people. Respecting and benefiting each other and caring for each other's core concerns are what the 2 sides should do in maintaining the partnership.
The reason why the Dalai Lama has won support from the west also lies in the beautiful clothes he puts on for himself, which are so attractive to the west. His smiling and bowing image has left others a "kind and gentle" impression, and his "non-violent," "no independence," slogans among many others are so effective.
In fact, the Dalai Lama is a typical person whose words are quite different from his actions. The violent activities that were instigated and plotted by his "exile government," Tibetan Youth Congress, and Tibetan Women's Association have all had his connivance. His tricks are not so complicated that he advocates something and does the complete opposite, but his goal is always the same – seeking Tibet's de facto independence.
The Dalai Lama can make a fuss about everything centering on the western society's concerns because he has carefully studied western values. His first move is to demand protection of Tibet's unique cultural tradition which "is now in danger." In fact, Tibet's traditional culture and education system have been protected perfectly and have developed rapidly after the liberation, particularly since the reform and opening up. The discovery and collation of King Gesar is solid proof.
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