(14 Jun 1999) English/Nat
On the second day of his visit to Jerusalem, the Dalai Lama toured Jewish, Muslim and Christian holy places in the Old City.
The exiled Tibetan Buddhist leader, who arrived on Saturday for a three-day visit, will not be received by any Israeli officials or political leaders.
He told reporters on Monday the purpose of his trip was to spread the word of peace and harmony.
The Dalai Lama toured Jewish, Muslim and Christian holy places in Jerusalem's Old City on Monday.
At the wailing wall, the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader offered a short prayer.
Later, he told reporters he was in Israel to promote peace and harmony.
SOUNDBITE: (English)
"Emotional harmony, or understanding between different traditions, this is the main purpose. And this is the second time. My first pilgrimage here, then, me alone. This time, I have more spiritual brothers and sisters, at least now five major worship traditions or followers are now together here."
SUPER CAPTION: Dalai Lama, Tibetan spiritual leader
The Dalai Lama arrived on Saturday for a three-day visit.
During his stay he will not be received by any Israeli officials or political leaders.
Officials said China made it clear that it would be deeply offended by any official reception for the Dalai Lama.
The Buddhist leader said he was not offended.
Israel exports arms and other hi-tech commodities to China and is trying to increase its trade ties there.
The Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959, after an unsuccessful revolt by Tibetans against Chinese forces which occupied the country in 1950.
He advocates independence for his homeland, or at least full autonomy.
Beijing maintains that Tibet is part of China.
Israel has said that the Dalai Lama's visit is private.
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