China has to go along with world trends. That's democracy, liberty, individual freedom. China sooner or later has to go that way. It cannot go backward.

In this quote, the Dalai Lama expresses his belief that China cannot ignore the growing global trends toward democracy, liberty, and individual freedom. He argues that, regardless of the country’s current political system, China will inevitably have to embrace these values as they become more central to the modern world. The Dalai Lama suggests that, while China may resist these trends, it will eventually be forced to adapt and move forward, as the forces of democratic ideals are increasingly influential worldwide.

The statement emphasizes the idea that democracy and freedom are not just ideals that exist in the Western world, but are becoming universal values that people around the globe strive for. The Dalai Lama believes that as the world becomes more interconnected, individual freedom will be harder to suppress, and countries, including China, will need to align with these broader trends to maintain relevance and stability. The quote reflects his commitment to the principles of human rights and the belief that freedom is an essential aspect of a just society.

The Dalai Lama’s remarks also highlight the tension between China’s authoritarian regime and the global call for democracy. As a political and spiritual leader who has long advocated for the rights of the Tibetan people and freedom, he sees China's current system as out of step with the larger movement toward liberty and self-determination. He maintains that, eventually, no nation can remain isolated from the growing demand for political freedom and individual rights.

Ultimately, the Dalai Lama’s quote is a hopeful vision for the future of China, where he believes that change toward a more open, democratic society is inevitable. He encourages the country to embrace the trend toward freedom, rather than resisting it, and acknowledges that the world’s shifting ideals will push all nations, including China, in this direction. It reflects his lifelong advocacy for peace and human rights across the globe.