Dalai Lama Condemns China While in Germany

FRANKFURT, Germany — The Dalai Lama criticized China's suppression of unrest in Tibet and insisted yesterday that the region — with its diverse heritage and rich traditions — wants to live in peace with Beijing under genuine autonomy.

"We are not seeking independence," the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader said at the start of a five-day visit to Germany. "Since we have a multicultural heritage and rich Buddhist tradition, we need genuine autonomy."

But he criticized China's approach toward unrest in Tibet and its sympathizers in the country.

"Demonstrations are happening in Tibet and China and some are suppressed, which is very sad," he said.

The Dalai Lama said his visit was aimed at promoting human values and religious harmony.

"I've had a close friendship with the German people, and I'd like to inform and explain about the state of affairs in Tibet on my trip," he said, noting that he has been visiting the country since 1973.