The discussions between the Chinese officials and the Dalai Lama’s representatives were categorized by Tibet’s spiritual leader as a “good first step.”

The discussions held in Shenzhen were the first attempt to resolve the conflict since the anti-government riots broke out in Tibet. The Dalai Lama’s representatives left China today with a firm promise from Beijing for future talks. The decision to reopen negotiations was made after many months of heavy global pressure.  

"All very candid. We had very candid discussions," said Lodi Gyari, one of the Tibetan spiritual leader's envoys, according to Agence France-Presse. The delegates left today off the Hong Kong airport with a direct route for India, home of the Tibet government-in-exile. They are expected to release a formal statement as soon as their leader will be fully informed with the discussions’ details.

Chinese President Hu Jintao expressed his hope that the talks will lead to a significant progress in the near future and the negotiations channels will surely remain open.

Some of the issues that must be resolved refer to the accusations made by both parts: the government in exile claims that at least 203 Tibetans have been murdered and more than 1,000 injured in the Chinese crackdown. On the other hand, China says that 21 people have been killed by Tibetan rioters.

 “The fact we are once again in contact is very vital for a solution to the Tibetan issue," said Thubten Samphel, spokesman of the Tibetan government-in-exile, yesterday, in a phone interview for AFP.