Don’t mix with Chinese bullies

LAST week’s front page story in Scotland on Sunday was worrying on several counts.

Firstly, no one wants to have anything to do with corrupt governments nor those who abuse human rights; but I would like to know of any super power that doesn’t have its hands tainted with blood.

Secondly, I find it quite concerning that – if true –the Dalai Lama was refused a meeting with the Scottish Government when he visited our shores in June. Does that mean that once we deal with repressive regimes we become one of their satellites and have to kowtow to their demands? What freedom then?

The Dalai Lama is a spiritual giant among men and anyone viewing a recent documentary film of him (Renaissance) in a worldwide search for answers to the global problems would hear that his way to seek peace is by diplomatic negotiation.

If we didn’t wish to rock any political boat at the time surely it was a golden opportunity lost to stand our ground with moral courage and show China that we have our own boundaries for integrity and fair play.

I’m beginning to lose faith in the drive for independence if we are going to lose our soul in the process.

I would rather live in a ­“diddy” country of low profile than try to mix with the world’s bully boys. We can survive quite comfortably in our own unique way – indeed not only survive but progress.

Janet Cunningham, Stirling