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Canada welcomes meeting with Dalai's representatives

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-07-01 14:05

OTTAWA -- Canada welcomed Monday the upcoming meeting between the Chinese central government and representatives of the Dalai Lama, saying it paves the way for resolving the long-standing differences.

Related readings:  Dalai meeting set for July  Dalai's return to Tibet depends on himself  China opposes any nation helping Dalai separatism  China slams UK for inviting Dalai to hearing

"Canada considers this dialogue to be an important element in working toward a resolution of outstanding issues and establishing a true and lasting peace in Tibet," Foreign Minister David Emerson said in a statement.

The Chinese central authorities announced Sunday that relevant central government departments will meet personal representatives of the Dalai Lama at his request in early July.

On May 4, officials from relevant central government departments had a meeting with representatives of the Dalai Lama at his request, the first time after the March 14 riots in Lhasa.