China has warned US officials against meeting the Dalai Lama during his visit to the country. The Tibetan spiritual leader is in Washington, D. C. this week.

China extended the same cautionary note regarding Tsai Ing-Wen, the newly elected president of Taiwan, who is expected to visit the United States soon on her way to Panama.

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Lu Kang, a spokesman for China's Foreign Ministry, said that the US is expected to uphold the "One-China" policy. During a daily news briefing on Tuesday, Lu said "I can responsibly tell you that on this issue the U.S. government has made solemn promises, which is to uphold a one China policy."

Both Tibet and Taiwan are delicate political issues for China. The Dalai Lama is considered to be a separatist by China.

It has not been confirmed if there will be any meeting between President Barack Obama and the Dalai Lama. Speaking to Reuters, the Dalai Lama said that the meeting is "not finalised, but some friends say he may meet me."

The Dalai Lama claims that he does not want independence but genuine autonomy for Tibet.

While US politicians have extended their support to the Dalai Lama in past, China claims that the United States has "promised" to recognize Tibet as an integral part of China.

Taiwan's President Tsai is expected to be in the United States in late June. She will set out on her first overseas trip on June 24. Tsai will visit Panama and Paraguay, which are among Taiwan's few allies. She may make a stopover in the US on her way back. However, no details about her engagements in the United States have been provided.

TagsDalai Lama, Tsai Ing-wen, Tibet, Taiwan