The New Nation - Internet Edition

Reuters, Dharamsala

The Dalai Lama ruled out retirement on Sunday and reaffirmed the support of Tibetan exiles for his "Middle Way" approach to China.

The Tibetan spiritual leader said new policy options on China could be considered in the future.

His statements came a day after Tibetan exiles decided to stick to the "Middle Way" approach to China in a six-day meeting, after a lack of progress in autonomy talks frustrated the Dalai Lama and led him to call for a review of his stand.

The 73-year-old leader told a news conference that he would not retire, putting an end to speculation about his future after he was hospitalised with abdominal pains earlier in the year.

"There is no point, or question of retirement," he said.

"It is my moral responsibility till my death to work for the Tibetan cause."

He said success could also be achieved by pursuing non-violence.

The Dalai Lama's "Middle Way" approach abandoned the dream of an independent Tibet in favour of seeking greater autonomy within China through dialogue.

"Total independence is not practical," the Dalai Lama added.

"Majority of views have come up supporting the Middle Way path to the Tibetan issue t which is right," the Tibetan spiritual leader told a meeting of exiles in northern India.

"With regard to the meeting, I can say concrete things were not expected. However, various options have come out. This is not something we decide on the spot."

"Wait for another month and then we will talk."

Tibetan exiles held a six-day meeting this week in the Himalayan town of Dharamsala, where the Tibetan government-in-exile is based.

"My faith is getting thinner in the Chinese government t My trust in Chinese public is strong," the Dalai Lama said.

Tibetan exiles said after the meeting they could start more radical protests and demand independence if China doesn't respond to the "Middle Way".