The Icelandic singer Bjork stunned her fans at a show in China. She appeared at the Shanghai International Gymnastics Centre and she played live her single “Declare Independence”. She concluded with a shout of “Tibet, Tibet” and her statement was considered an affront for China.

The Associated Press reported that China’s Ministry of Culture responded to Bjork’s action by posting a statement on its website, affirming that the singer “broke Chinese law and hurt Chinese people’s feelings.” It was also said that “there is no country that admits that Tibet is an independent country.” China ruled over Tibet’s territory since 1951 and the suggestion of Tibetan independence is considered a taboo here.

Bjork replied on her website saying that she is not a politician, but a musician. "This song was written more with the personal in mind.” AFP News were told by a spokesperson for the ministry that Bjork could be banned from the country in the future if she continues to behave like that in the future and her performance in China will be forbidden. „Declare Independence” was sung by Bjork earlier in February, when she performed in Japan. She dedicated it to Kosovo.

Her behavior last Sunday was not reported in the state-controlled media for several days. While China is angry, advocates of an independent Tibet congratulated Bjork for taking a stand.

Chinese policy over Tibet was criticized by politicians abroad and human rights activists. The exiled Buddhist spiritual leader Dalai Lama is still considered by many Tibetans as their rightful leader.