Consider Tibet as core issue in Sino-India talks: Lobsang Sangay, PM-designate of Tibet's Government-in-Exile

NEW DELHI: India should consider Tibet as one of the core issues in its discussions with China, Lobsang Sangay, Prime Minister-designate of Tibet's Government-in- Exile, has said.

"Politically, it is a humble request on our part that India consider Tibet as one of the core issues between India and China," Sangay, who assumes charge as Prime Minister on August 8, said in an interview.

He said without the presence of the Chinese army in Tibet, India had a very peaceful border for a long time.

"Now with an assertive Chinese military on the borders and in the sea, many Indians are realising the importance of Tibet, which we have been arguing for years," he said.

Sangay, who was born in Darjeeling and spent the last 16 years in the US, was elected as the Tibetan 'Kalon Tripa' or Prime Minister in April after the Dalai Lama decided to give up his political powers earlier this year.

He will be administered the oath of office at a public ceremony at Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh on August 8 at 9:09 a.m.

"8/8 (August 8) is considered to be very auspicious by the Chinese and 9/9 stands for longevity. It is very difficult for them to criticise the number eight," he said.

Asked about reaching out to the Chinese leadership to find a solution to the Tibet issue, Sangay said he was willing to meet his Chinese counterpart "anytime, anywhere" but said there was lack of reciprocity from Beijing.

"I am willing to meet with my Chinese counterpart anytime, anywhere. We are willing to find a peaceful, win-win solution to the issue. The issue has always been the lack of reciprocity. Whenever they want to discuss the Tibet issue, we are a willing partner," he said.