16. Mar 2009
Karmapa gives rare interview
(BBC) The 17th Karmapa, Urgyen Trinley said he backed the Dalai Lama's policy of seeking greater autonomy for Tibetans rather than independence, but blamed Beijing for deadlocked talks. In a rare interview, the Karmapa said that his feelings toward China had warmed since leaving Tibet, and that he had embraced elements of Chinese culture - learning to speak Mandarin fluently and also watching Chinese films. He said he hoped that the political issue of Tibet could be resolved peacefully, saying it would be in the interests of both Tibet and China. "If there is a chance [to improve relations], I will do whatever I can", he added. The Karmapa said the Tibetan government-in-exile had become more democratic, and that the tradition of one Dalai Lama succeeding another need not be followed. "I just wish there could be more people to take part in the competition [to become leader]", he said.