"An example of peace and non violence": this is the phrase used by Hans-Gert Poettering, president of the EU Parliament, in introducing the Dalai Lama to the MEPs in Brussels. The German politician recalls the religious leader’s three previous visits to the European Parliament, then he insists on the Union’s supporting the Tibetan cause: "Several times, this Assembly voted on resolutions that ordered China to acknowledge the Tibetans’ rights and cultural and religious identity", he explains. "Parliament recognises the territorial unity of China, of which the Tibet is part. But we will never stop defending the freedom and rights of its population", states Poettering, speaking to the Dalai Lama. A few days ago, Peking’s Government had cancelled the summit with the EU that should have been held on December 1st, because of the spiritual leader’s visit to Europe. As to this, the Dalai Lama explains: "We do not seek independence from China, we are not separatists. We want respect, freedom and independence. Note that even the Chinese Constitution protects minorities. So we are not against the law" of People’s Republic of China.
