China has strongly criticized the Czech Republic after the Czech Senate adopted a resolution concerning the succession of the Dalai Lama.
In a statement, Beijing denounced a "blatant interference" in its internal affairs, arguing that the issue of the Dalai Lama fell exclusively within its sovereignty.
The resolution adopted on March 25 by Czech senators concerns the conditions of succession of the Tibetan spiritual leader, a highly sensitive subject for the Chinese authorities.
The Chinese government considers the Dalai Lama a separatist, while his supporters abroad defend his religious and cultural role.
This new diplomatic tension comes amid already delicate relations between Beijing and several European countries on issues of human rights and Tibet.
China regularly reacts firmly to any foreign position on these issues, which it considers contrary to the principle of non-interference.
On the Czech side, this resolution reflects a political will to support religious freedom and the rights of Tibetans.
This episode illustrates once again the deep divergences between China and some Western countries on issues of sovereignty and values.
This could lead to further diplomatic friction between Beijing and Prague in the coming weeks.
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