China on Wednesday “appreciated” India’s support in dealing with pro-Tibetan independence forces, following a spate of self-immolations by Buddhist monks after New Delhi offered “any help” to ease tensions and said that the Tibetan issue is Beijing’s internal affair.
The tense situation prevailing in Tibet and the Tibetan inhabited areas in China, following immolation attempts and recent violent incidents figured in the talks between external affairs minister S.M. Krishna’s and senior Chinese leaders here on Wednesday.
“We did discuss Tibetan issue also. It is government of India’s position that the Tibetan Autonomous Region is part of the People’s Republic China, (PRC) as a result of that we are dealing with internal affairs of China,” Mr Krishna said, while briefing Indian media after the talks.
“Hence we have to be very cautious and any help that we can render to ease the tensions, we are too willing to do it. But I do not think that situation will ever arise,” he said, replying to a question whether the Tibet issue was raised by China during his talks.
Sixteen Buddhist monks have attempted self immolations in the recent months and two persons have been killed in recent violent demonstrations in Sichuan province, bordering Tibet.
Praising India’s stand, Zhou Yongkong, a member of the Politburo Standing Committee of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) told Mr Krishna that China appreciated it.
“Tibetan issue concerns the core interest of China. The Chinese government firmly penalises according to law the separatist activities of the so-called ‘pro-Tibet Independence’, and safeguards the territorial integrity,” a statement issued by the Chinese foreign ministry quoted Mr Zhou as telling to Mr Krishna during their meeting. “China appreciates the firm support of the Indian government over this issue”, the statement added.
It quoted Mr Krishna as saying that “Tibet is part of the People’s Republic of China, and the Indian government does not allow any force to use the Indian soil to carry out any anti-China activities”.
“India-China cooperation in various areas have been fruitful in recent years. The two countries kept good coordination and cooperation on important international affairs...,” Mr Krishna said.