Calling the crisis in Tibet ‘‘a challenge to the conscience of the world’’, Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the US House of Representatives, today termed as “most astounding” the Chinese government’s charge accusing the Dalai Lama of instigating violence in Tibet. She urged the Chinese government to allow independent monitors and medical aid into Tibet.

This is the most high-powered American delegation to the Dalai Lama till date. Accompanied by 10 Congressmen and women, Pelosi, a well-known supporter of the Dalai Lama, said the world must insist upon knowing the truth in Tibet.

“If freedom-loving people all over the world do not speak out against the Chinese repression in Tibet, we will have lost all moral right to speak for human rights,” said the US Speaker with the Tibetan spiritual leader by her side. There was no mistaking the rapport between the two as the Dalai Lama held her hand and showed her around the main temple.

Asked whether she would consider tabling a resolution condemning China in the US House, Pelosi said members of her delegation had expressed their interest in a resolution calling for an independent investigation into the Chinese government’s allegations against the Dalai Lama.

“I am not in the least surprised by the use of violence by the Chinese. But the Chinese have called the Dalai Lama a liar, an instigator of violence. It’s the most astounding statement ever made. The whole world knows His Holiness is an embodiment of peace,” she said.

Pelosi, who was accompanied by her husband, was welcomed with a traditional yellow scarf by the Dalai Lama and a loud ovation by the Tibetans at the main temple where the Central Tibetan Administration had arranged a small reception.

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