Spokesman : `` Not in South Africa 's interest for him ( Dalai Lama ) to attend '' South Africa says it is worried focus will switch away from 2010 World Cup . It added South Africa has gained much from its trading relationship with China . `` The decision to exclude the Dalai Lama is irreconcilable with key principles on which our society is based including the principles of accountability , openness and responsiveness and the rights to freedom of expression and free political activity , '' he said . The Chinese government said the visit would be a "historic opportunity" and that Beijing was looking forward to working closely with Nelson Mandela on issues of mutual interest.
Spokesman : `` Not in South Africa 's interest for him ( Dalai Lama ) to attend '' South Africa says it is worried focus will switch away from 2010 World Cup . It added South Africa has gained much from its trading relationship with China . The Chinese government said the visit would be a "historic opportunity" and that Beijing was looking forward to working closely with Nelson Mandela on issues of mutual interest.