AN international media delegation arrived in Southwest China’s Tibet Autonomous Region yesterday, following unrest in the regional capital Lhasa.

The Information Office of China’s State Council arranged a three-day trip for the delegation, which consists of 26 journalists representing 19 media organizations from different countries and regions, including the Associated Press from the United States, the Financial Times from Britain, the South China Morning Post from Hong Kong and Central News Agency from Taiwan.

Lhasa is returning to normal after the recent unrest that was believed to have been organized and masterminded by the Dalai Lama clique.

The unrest, involving beating, smashing, ransacking and arson, led to the deaths of at least 18 innocent civilians and one police officer. It also left 382 civilians and 241 police officers injured.

China yesterday seriously criticized two French officials’ remarks on the recent riots, saying the riots were a secessionist, violent incident planned by the Dalai Lama.

French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner said Tuesday he could not tolerate China’s “crackdown” in the Tibet, while Rama Yade, French human rights junior minister, said she would definitely meet with the Dalai Lama if the latter visited France.

More than 100 countries have extended their support to the Chinese Government in handling the unrest and condemned the violence.(Xinhua)