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Why have you been staging demonstrations every day?
Our protests are against Chinese oppression, violations of human rights and the lack of press freedom in Tibet. We want an investigation into the crackdown that the Chinese government has launched in Tibet, especially since 13 March. We also want human rights monitors and international media to have access to Tibet. Our protests will bring attention to this issue so that the world will pressure China to comply.
What is the movement's main aim?
Let me make this clear to everyone. Contrary to what's being said in the media, we are not leading a separatist movement. We are not saying that Tibet should not be a part of China. We know that more than 90 percent of Tibetans are happy being part of China. Our protests are against some of the policies that the Chinese government has in Tibet. We will protest until our demands have been met.
But in Kathmandu you hear "free Tibet" everywhere. There was even an attempt to burn the Chinese flag.
We are not calling for a Free Tibet. Yes, during our movement, some incensed groups may have raised that demand, and some unintended incidents have also taken place. But the police and government have flared up the peaceful movement with their violent suppression of it. Even amongst ourselves, there are people who hold different views. But our fight, as a movement, is for an autonomous Tibet.
Why are you opposing the Olympics?
Our cause is not associated with the Olympics and we are not opposing the games. Our movement has been ongoing for nearly 50 years with more or less the same demands. Because of the Olympics, our campaign has caught the world's attention and we have been getting international support.
Why not take up the offer of talks that the Chinese government put forward?
We have never opposed talks but first there needs to be a proper environment for them to work fruitfully.
