India on Thursday asked China not to attach "political meaning" to Dalai Lama's visit to Arunachal Pradesh, saying the people and the government in New Delhi view him as "a revered and a religious figure".
"The government's position in this regard has been very consistent, it has not changed. We view him as a revered, religious figure and is treated as such by the government and people of India. We have no say in his travels in India and no political meaning should be attached to such travels and plans," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official spokesperson Gopal Bagley said.
On Friday, China expressed concerns over the Tibetan spiritual leader's visit to India stating that this would seriously 'damage' bilateral ties between the two countries.
China also urged the Indian side to honour its commitments on the Tibet-related issues.
Dalai Lama is scheduled to visit Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang monastery after eight years between April 4 and 13.
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