Despite "worsening conditions'' in Tibet and growing frustration among Tibetans, the Dalai Lama writes that dialogue with China remains the best option.

By the Dalai Lama

SPECIAL TO MSNBC

World Tibet Network News Wednesday, May 06, 1998

May 5 - Tension is mounting inside Tibet as human rights groups report rising resistance to nearly 50 years of Chinese rule. In India last week, hunger strikes protesting Chinese rule resulted in the death of a former Tibetan Buddhist monk, who set himself afire.

Nevertheless, the Dalai Lama remains resolute that dialogue with China is the route to resolving the conflict. Currently touring the United States, the Dalai Lama shares his vision of China and Tibet in the next millennium.

GREAT CHANGES are taking place all over the world at the dawn of a new millennium. While there are instances of new conflicts breaking out, it is encouraging that we are also able to witness the emergence of a spirit of dialogue and reconciliation in many troubled parts of the world. It is my belief that humanity in general has drawn lessons from the experiences gained during this century. As a result, I believe the human community has become more mature. There is, therefore, hope that with determination and dedication we can make the next century a century of dialogue and nonviolent conflict resolution.

I wish to express my sincere appreciation and great respect for the resilience and patience shown by the Tibetan people in the face of tremendous odds. The current situation in Tibet and the lack of any substantive progress in resolving the Tibetan problem is no doubt causing an increasing sense of frustration among many Tibetans. I am concerned that some might feel compelled to look for avenues other than peaceful resolutions.

While I understand their predicament, I wish to firmly reiterate once again the importance of abiding by the nonviolent course of our freedom struggle. The path of nonviolence must remain a matter of principle in our long and difficult quest for freedom. It is my firm belief that this approach is the most beneficial and practical course in the long run.

A solution to the Tibetan issue would have far-reaching positive implications for China's image in the world, including in its dealings with Hong Kong and Taiwan.

The sweeping changes across the globe have also embraced China. There is no doubt that China today is a better place to live in than 15 or 20 years ago. It is my hope that the leadership in China will have the foresight and courage to provide greater freedom to the Chinese people. History teaches us that material progress and comfort alone are not the full answer to the needs and yearnings of any human society.

In contrast to positive developments in China proper, the situation in Tibet has sadly worsened in recent years. Repression - initially confined to monasteries and nunneries - has now been extended to cover all parts of Tibetan society. In some spheres of life in Tibet, we are witnessing the return of an atmosphere of intimidation, coercion and fear, reminiscent of

the days of the Cultural Revolution.

The sad state of affairs in Tibet is of no benefit at all either to Tibet or to China. To continue along the present path does nothing to alleviate the suffering of the Tibetan people, nor does it bring stability and unity to China, which are of overriding importance to the leadership in Beijing.

I believe a solution to the Tibetan issue would have far-reaching positive implications for China's image in the world, including in its dealings with Hong Kong and Taiwan.

With regard to a mutually acceptable solution to the issue of Tibet, my position is very straightforward. I am not seeking independence. As I have said many times before, what I am seeking is for the Tibetan people to be given the opportunity to have genuine self-rule in order to preserve their civilization and for the unique Tibetan culture, religion, language and way

of life to grow and thrive. My main concern is to ensure the survival of the Tibetan people with their own unique Buddhist cultural heritage.

I take this opportunity to once again urge the Chinese leadership to give serious and substantive consideration to my suggestions. It is my firm belief that dialogue and a willingness to look with honesty and clarity at the reality of Tibet can lead us to a viable solution. It is time for all of us

to seek truth from facts and to learn lessons derived from a calm and objective study of the past and to act with courage, vision and wisdom.

_________________________________________________________

Tenzin Gyatso is the given name of the 14th Dalai Lama, whose followers believe he is the incarnation of Avalokitesvara, the bodhisattva of infinite compassion. He has lived in exile in Dharmasala, India, since 1950, when Chinese troops occupied Tibet. The Chinese government has indicated that it will respond to the Dalai Lama's remarks in an upcoming commentary to appear in MSNBC;s Opinions section.