It remains to be seen whether the Dalai Lama would meet with Czech government officials Friday, foundation spokesman Filip Sebek said.

At a press conference Thursday, the 74-year-old Tibetan leader urged support for freedom and democracy activists in China. 'We should provide them with encouragement,' he said.

He said that Kadeer, whom China accused of stirring up bloody riots in Uighur-populated Xinjiang province in July, was much more moderate than other Uighur activists.

'She totally agrees (with) our way, including non-violence,' he said. 'My understanding is that she also prefers meaningful autonomy, not separation.'

China has claimed that the Dalai Lama, living in exile in India since 1959, seeks independence for Tibet, an assertion he has repeatedly rejected. 'It is in our own interest to remain in a big family,' he said.