Conflict at the top of the world

This past week has seen a not-so-new drama unfolding at the top of the world. It was actually 57 years ago that the Chinese army invaded the country of Tibet, diposing its ruler, the Dalai Lama, and imposing the force that has characterized the system of governance in that country at least in the 'modern era'. Since that time, Tibetans have been in a constant struggle for the return of their freedom.

The Dalai Lama, a leader in exile has spent the past almost six decades traveling throughout the world, speaking with those who will listen about the ideals of peace and reconciliation. For the Tibetans in the diaspora, he continues to be a symbol of hope that one day their homeland will be restored. For the Chinese government, he is no doubt a constant reminder of the resiliance of people who don't easily relinquish that for which they have lived and worked, or that which they have inherited thanks to the dedication of their ancestors.

Only a few days after the historic meeting of Catholic Church leaders in Rome last week to discuss the implementation of the Holy Father's pastoral message to Catholics in China, the media began reporting that the Chinese authorities were once again clamping down on Tibetans who are resident in the annexed territory and the surrounding areas.

Reports about the violence in Tibet have been reaching western countries for the past week, and the fingers of blame are being pointed in all directions, and especially in the walls of the Vatican, the situation in Western China is being monitored closely. At the end of his public address during the weekly General Audience held today, Pope Benedict XVI issued a call for dialogue and tolerance in Tibet. "I follow with deep unrest the news that in these days is coming from Tibet. My fatherly heart feels sadness and sorrow at the suffering of so many people," he said.

In light of the fact that the upcoming Olympic Games are scheduled to take place this summer in Beijing, Chinese authorities announced today that they are ready and willing to establish dialogue with the Dalai Lama. Whether this meeting will take place remains yet to be determined. Regardless of whether or not they do, it is important that China appear at least to be eager about re-establishing peace before the Olympic flame, a long-standing sign of peace, is lit.