The New York Times

Friday, September 24, 1999

Dalai Lama: US Role in Tibet Talks

By The Associated Press

NEW DELHI, India (AP) -- The Dalai Lama said Friday that the United States and India could help resolve the Tibet issue with China -- and hoped it will be done during his lifetime.

The Tibetan spiritual leader fled by horseback from his Himalayan homeland to the northern Indian mountain town of Dharmsala after an ill-fated 1959 revolt and a Chinese crackdown. More than 120,000 refugees followed. Dharmsala is the seat of his government-in-exile.

``Certainly, America can help. Then, India, naturally,'' the Dalai Lama was quoted as saying by Press Trust of India in the southern town of Bylakuppe after inaugurating a new Buddhist monastery.

The Dalai Lama said he felt the issue would be resolved in his lifetime, but added, ``It depends on how long I live. If I die next year, is it going to be resolved in one year?''

The Dalai Lama said ``many, many'' Americans had supported the Tibetan movement and noted that Washington had appointed a special coordinator for dialogue between China and Tibet.