China on Tuesday expressed its disapproval of a visit to Australia by the Dalai Lama whom it accused of engaging in secessionist activities.

"China has expressed to Australian leaders its strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the Dalai Lama's visit which runs counter to China's wishes," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said at a regular press conference.

The Dalai Lama is not only a religious figure but also a long-time political exile who is engaged in activities aimed at splitting the motherland sabotaging national unity, Qin said.

The Chinese government is firmly against any country allowing the Dalai Lama to engage in secessionist activities on their territories, Qin added.

He said China has made representations to Australia and hopes the Australian side will realize the secessionist nature of the Dalai Lama.

"The Tibet issue is not a human rights issue but an issue of secession and anti-secession. We hope the Australian government would fully realize this and refrain from offering facilities and conveniences for Dalai Lama's secessionist activities," he said.

Source: Xinhua