Published by: World Tibet Network News, Monday, June 17, 1996

Source: Deutscher Depeschen Dienst via ADN news agency, Berlin, in

German 0916 gmt 15 Jun 96

Bonn, ddpADN: The Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetans, has appealed to the international community not to let up in its support for Tibet. Speaking at the opening of the international conference of the Tibetan support groups in Bonn this morning [15th June], he also appealed for negotiations with the Chinese government. China's occupation of Tibet was a "fact" . However, he was certain that a solution for his country could be found in negotiations.

The Dalai Lama said his adherence to the principle of non-violence would not change in future. For him, non-violence was the "only path" . As spiritual leader, his paramount goal was the protection of Tibetan and Buddhist culture. A "peaceful, humane society" must be established in Tibet.

A total of 275 delegates from 60 countries are taking part in the three-day conference, including representatives of the Chinese democracy movement. The conference is debating a joint strategy to preserve the Tibetan culture, language and religion as well as the restoration of the right to self-determination of the Tibetan people.