THE Communist Party boss of Tibet has begun a tour of Paris in what analysts see as Beijing's effort to improve the international image of China's policy towards the autonomous region.
Xinhua (the New China News Agency) reported yesterday that Chen Kuiyuan had left Beijing to attend the 28th congress of the French Communist Party.
The official agency said Mr Chen was invited by the French Communist Party, but did not say if he would meet French Government officials.
Since assuming his post in late 1992, Mr Chen has adopted a low profile.
Tibet analysts said it was very rare for the party boss of the sensitive region to travel abroad.
Mr Chen's visit coincides with the French tour of Vice-Premier and Foreign Minister Qian Qichen, who will also meet US Secretary of State Warren Christopher in Paris.
