Dalai Lama backs Beijing Games

Updated 11.54 Wed Aug 06 2008

Keywords: Olympic Games, Beijing, Tibet, Dalai Lama, China

Tibet's spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, has publicly backed the Beijing Olympics.

"Right from the time of China's application to hold the Olympic Games, I have supported China's right to host the Games," the Dalai Lama said in a statement posted on the government-in-exile's website.

"I send my prayers and good wishes for the success of this event" - Dalai Lama

"This is a moment of great pride to the 1.3 billion Chinese people. These Games should contribute to promoting the Olympic spirit of friendship, openness and peace.

"I send my prayers and good wishes for the success of this event."

The Dalai Lama and his followers have been accused by China of trying to derail the Games by organising unrest across Tibet in March and subsequent protests that upset the Olympic torch relay in several countries.

The Dalai Lama has denied the accusations.

In the most recent protest, four protesters were arrested after the unfurled flags and huge protest banners outside the Olympic stadium in Beijing.

Two of those arrested were from the UK.