Once again I, as a Dutch citizen, was appalled by the cowardness of our prime minister. As previous comments stated, I too feel it's a shame that apareantly economical pressure weighs heavier than doing what is morraly responsible, or just the right thing to do. I for one haven't yet met one single Dutch person that sides with China on the matter of Tibetan independence. Sor for mister Balkenende to make the decision not to meet with the Dalai Lama is once again an example of not speaking in the name of the Dutch people. I hope the Tibetans, both here in Holland and in Tibet, realize this, allthough I can't think of a reason why they would, since this refusal to meet with the Dalai Lama sends out such a strong message of lack of support for them. I enjoyed listening to this cover story very much. It's refreshing to here the opinions of Tibetan people living in Holland for once, and I admire their ability to hold on to their faith, eventhough political actions such as these must be very trying for them.

Good coverage - interesting case!! In my opinion the refusal from both the Dutch government to meet the Dalai Lama makes sence from their responsibilty of political and economical stability. Morally I'm very much against the approach and wished Europe (and the international community) could have formed a stronger sound against the Chinese government together who is violating human rights issues in tibet. To bad the freedom of speach is affected in Europe too in this way. All together I must say The Netherlands showed more courage than some bigger and stronger European countries by allowing the Dalai Lama entrance at all.

It is refreshing to see how our Prime Minister for once not tries to hide behind the opinions of other European leaders but makes his own statement and does exactly the opposite. Too bad that this time the topic is about meeting with the biggest protagonist of peaceful resistance in the world. It seems a topic where we Europeans should all agree on for once and show our joint respect for the approach of the Tibetan people. Nevertheless Mr. Balkenende thought it would be better to be a rebel this time and not follow the other leaders on the continent. I wonder if he realizes that his decision also sends out the following signals to the world: 1. Economical motives are apparently prioritized higher then the humanitarian issues by the Netherlands. 2. Europe is as always divided and not even close to getting a union on issues that matter. 3. As always the Dutch are cowards as it comes to international politics I think that Mr. Balkenende spoiled more then he spared with his decision. My respect goes out to the Tibetan people in the Netherlands who also seem to stay calm and positive in this matter and don’t give up there believe in peaceful resistance. I hope that one day you will get rewarded for your patience!