US President George W. Bush on Monday paid tribute to "the courage of the Dalai Lama and the Buddhists in Tibet," less than one month before heading to China for the Beijing Olympics opening gala.
"We remember those seeking religious freedom in China, and we honour those who press for their liberties, people like the Uighur Muslims," he said as he marked the 10th anniversary of a US law to promote global religious freedom. "I also had the honour of meeting those who attend underground churches in China. And we also honour the courage of the Dalai Lama and the Buddhists in Tibet," said Bush.