U.S. Relations With the People's Republic of China (2009)

U.S. Department of State

Ian Kelly
Department Spokesman

Daily Press Briefing

Washington, DC
November 2, 2009

1:26 p.m. EST

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QUESTION: On the Dalai Lama, he's -- he was here recently, but President Obama turned down a meeting with him, and he's now going to a region of India which is turning into a politicized battle between India and China. And I was wondering if the U.S. has a position on the Dalai Lama's travels and meetings, since it's apparently causing quite a stir over in the region.

MR. KELLY: Yeah. I'm afraid that's another issue that I'm not aware of. So again, if we can get more information on that, we're happy to give it to you.

QUESTION: How about Uighurs and Palau? (Laughter.)

MR. KELLY: Uighurs and Palau -- that I do have something on. I will find it. Or not.

**STAFF: Miscellaneous.

MR. KELLY: Oh, miscellaneous. Thank you.

QUESTION: Miscellaneous? (Laughter.)

MR. KELLY: Okay.

QUESTION: That's kind of --

**STAFF: Cross-cutting issue.

MR. KELLY: Cross-cutting issue. It's a global issue.

Six Uighurs were transferred from the Guantanamo Bay detention facility to the custody of the Government of Palau on October 31st. That actually was November 1st, Palau time. And we would like to reiterate our gratitude to the Government of Palau for its generous offer to receive these Uighurs. This resettlement is a major step in implementing the President's directive to close the Guantanamo Bay detention facility. And the continued assistance of our friends and allies is extremely important and much appreciated.

QUESTION: How are the compact negotiations going?

MR. KELLY: How are the compact negotiations going? I'll see if I can find out about that. So that's a third taken question.

Okay?

QUESTION: Thanks.

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(The briefing was concluded at 1:48 p.m.)