SINGAPORE: Singapore welcomes the decision of the Chinese government to begin contact and consultations with the Dalai Lama's representative.

In response to media queries, a Singapore Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesman said this would help maintain stability in Tibet.

He added that it is in the interest of the entire region that a long-term solution be found that will respect China's sovereignty, territorial integrity, while allowing the Tibetan people the maximum possible cultural and religious space.

He said no one – least of all the Tibetan people – gains from the continuation of protests and attempts to link the Tibetan issue with the Beijing Olympic Games.


- CNA/so