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Tibet Conflict Calls for Information, Transparency and Dialogue

The German government considers it indispensable that foreign media and obeservers be allowed into Tibet. The Tibetans and the Chinese government should attempt to resolve the conflict within the framework of a peaceful dialogue, stated Thomas Steg, deputy government spokesman, in Berlin (March 24).

The German government is following developments and events in Tibet and other regions of China very closely and with concern, declared Thomas Steg.

It would be desirable to discover what exactly has happened and is happening in Tibet, he continued. "China must ensure transparency here,” emphasised the deputy government spokesman. This is the only way for the Chinese government to regain the trust of the general public the world over.

The German government thus considers it to be crucially important that foreign observers and media representatives be allowed to report from the scenes of events as they unfold. The media must be able to gain their own impression of the situation in Tibet.

Federal Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier declared at the weekend that, "China is hurting itself by failing to allow foreign observers to obtain their own impressions of the situation".

Dialogue rather than a boycott

Thomas Steg rejected any discussion that focuses on a boycott of the Olympic Games. A more promising approach, he said, is to push for a political solution to the conflict. Our main concern must be, "to help the people avoid violence” and to help them embark on a peaceful dialogue.

To this end, Tibet and the Dalai Lama on the one side and the Chinese government on the other must be willing to seek some middle ground. "The Tibetans want to preserve their own culture. China is interested in ensuring political stability and territorial integrity. This is why the German government sees no alternative to a direct dialogue between the Dalai Lama and the government in Beijing,” declared Thomas Steg.

Beijing holds the key to success

Not only Beijing has an interest in the success of the Olympic Games, continued the spokesman. "The Games will be a success if the government in Beijing realises that it holds the key to that success.” This involves ensuring clarity as to development in the regions, guaranteeing free access for international observers and recognising human rights.

The German government has always supported the Tibetans claim to religious and cultural autonomy. At the same time, Germany pursues a "One-China policy", which rejects all separatist movements.

March 27, 2008

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