South Africa refuses visa to Dalai Lama

The Dalai Lama will reportedly be unable to attend this year's World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates in South Africa after the host nation denied him a visa.

The Dalai Lama’s South Africa representative Nangsa Chodon said he had been told the spiritual leader would not receive his visa and would be unable to attend the Cape Town event, The Diplomat reported.

However, the South African government has denied it rejected the visa application, claiming the Dalai Lama had voluntarily cancelled his trip.

The Lama, who is the leader in exile of Tibet, had attended the past three international gatherings of Nobel Peace Prize winners.

It has been speculated the alleged rejection of the Lama's visa is a result of South Africa's increased ties with China.

Beijing regards the Tibetan leader as a criminal, and welcomed the news he would not be travelling to South Africa.

The Chinese government accused the Lama of trying to sabotage China's unity.

However, Cape Town Mayor Patricia de Lille said South Africa would be humiliated if the Lama was refused a visa.