World Tibet Network News Tuesday, May 26, 1998

DHARMSALA, India, 26 May (AP) President Clinton should devote some of his upcoming visit to China to convincing Chinese leaders that Tibetan autonomy is in their best interests, the Dalai Lama says. Autonomy in Tibet could contribute "positively" toward resolving China's dispute with Taiwan, the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader said in an interview Monday with The Associated Press.

Beijing sent troops into Tibet in the 1950s to assert sovereignty there; it considers self-ruled Taiwan part of its territory as well and is pursuing talks on reunification.

"Public condemnation of the Chinese government creates more embarrassment," the Dalai Lama said. "In some cases, that's the only way. But now, today, I think there's another way: Tell them, discuss, and try to clear the misunderstandings and suspicion."

"If President Clinton fails, if this approach fails, there is of course another approach. More criticism. More embarrassment," the Dalai Lama said.

The Chinese government wants nothing to mar Clinton's late June visit, the first by an American president since Chinese troops crushed the Tiananmen Square democracy movement in 1989.

Next month marks the 10th anniversary of the Dalai Lama's unrealized plan for Tibetan self-rule, which would leave foreign affairs and defense in Chinese hands but give control of internal affairs to a Tibetan administration.

Washington has not taken a position on the plan, while China has rejected it, saying the Dalai Lama has not abandoned his goal of independence as China demands.

The United States, which recognizes Tibet as part of China, has urged Beijing to meet the Dalai Lama.