China takes fresh swing at Dalai Lama

BEIJING, March 26 (UPI) -- China renewed its attack on the Dalai Lama for the spreading Tibetan protests even as the spiritual leader again called on his people to renounce violence.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang told reporters in Beijing the international community should see the "true features of the Dalai Lama's secessionist clique," Xinhua reported.

The accusations came as the Tibetan spiritual leader, living in exile in India, said in New Delhi Tuesday he would resign if Tibetans' violent protests didn't cease.

China claimed more than 100 countries have extended their support to the government in handling the unrest. China also reportedly plans to allow foreign journalists back into Tibet this week.

Tibetan exiles claim the death toll has risen to 140 from 130 since the protests began March 10, while China says 19 have died.

A British foreign office report Tuesday cited China for its "poor" human rights record and warned the world would be watching it closely as its gets ready for the Summer Olympics, The Guardian reported.

In its 21 "major countries of concern," the report cited China's alleged extensive use of execution, torture and detention without trial. It also decried the lack of an independent judiciary, restrictions on religion and widespread violations in the Tibetan region, the British newspaper said.