asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will outline Irish Government policy and his efforts to put that policy into effect in relation to the Chinese occupation of Tibet; if he has had any contact or dialogue with the Dalai Lama or his representatives in recent times; and if he will meet with him to discuss the way in which Ireland could assist in furthering the aims of the Tibetan people.
Written Answers. - Sino-Irish Relations.
36.
Ireland entered into diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China in 1979, recognising the Government of the People's Republic of China. as the sole legal Government of China. At the time we established diplomatic relations Tibet was part of the territory of the People's Republic of China. Ireland welcomes the recent positive developments in Chinese policy towards Tibet.
I have not had occasion to meet with the Dalai Lama or his representative. The Dali Lama is an important person in his religious capacity. This would be taken into account in any request on his part to be received in Ireland.