Nick Minchin (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Finance and Administration) Share this | Hansard source

It is true that the Prime Minister has announced that he will be meeting with the Dalai Lama this week. I am sure that is something that many in this chamber would welcome. I personally am pleased, as someone who does respect the Dalai Lama and his role in the world, that he is in a position to do so. I do not know what the content of the discussions will be. I am happy to ensure that the Prime Minister is aware of your recommendation, Senator Brown, but obviously it will be a matter for the Prime Minister as to what he wishes to raise with the Dalai Lama when he meets him. This is a difficult and sensitive area, as he would well understand. I respect not only Senator Brown but also the many others who have a particular view about the situation in Tibet. Senator Brown would also understand the extraordinary importance of Australia’s relationship with China. I think the Prime Minister in particular can take great credit for establishing a very strong professional relationship with China, marked by mutual respect on the Chinese side as well as on ours, in terms of the critical importance of that relationship and the importance of China and its demand for the things that Australia is so well placed to supply. We respect and understand the Chinese position with respect to the Dalai Lama and the issue of Tibet. Nevertheless, as I say, we are obviously pleased that the Prime Minister has seen fit to meet the Dalai Lama and I will pass on your recommendations, Senator Brown.