World Notes CHINA

The Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet, has repeatedly insisted that his countrymen be granted full independence by their Chinese overlords. Last week he offered a more modest proposal. At a press conference at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, the Dalai Lama suggested that Tibet be granted the status of "association" with China.

Under the plan, Tibetans would have the "right to decide on all matters concerning Tibet," the Dalai Lama said, while China would retain authority over foreign affairs and, for a time, defense. Beijing officials responded to the Dalai Lama's suggestion by warning foreigners to stop providing a forum for proposals that aim at "undermining China's territorial integrity."