China urges UK concrete action for ties

BEIJING - Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying on Thursday urged the UK to respect China's views on Tibet-related issues and take tangible action to restore bilateral relations.

Hua made the remarks at a regular press briefing after being asked to comment on British Prime Minister David Cameron's recent remarks regarding Tibet.

Cameron said Wednesday that Britain recognizes Tibet as part of China and does not support Tibetan independence. He also said he hopes Britain can build a better relationship with China.

Hua said China hopes the UK will continue to respect China's concerns, properly handle related issues and send a concordant message to the outside world.

"Tibet is an integral part of China and Tibetan affairs are China's domestic affairs," Hua said, adding that the Dalai Lama is a political exile who has long been engaged in anti-China secessionist activities in the name of religion.

Hua reiterated the Chinese government's stern opposition to foreign leaders meeting with the Dalai Lama, as well as any foreign intervention in China's domestic affairs.