The Dalai Lama on Wednesday urged Britain and other western states not to forget the plight of Tibet as they strive to forge closer relations with China.

On the first full day of his 11-day visit to the UK, the Dalai Lama said he fully understood that Britain, like other nations, was seeking to maintain good economic relations with the growing Chinese superpower. However, at a press conference in Westminster, he said: "The economy is important but human rights are more important. While you are making close relationships in the business field, there is no point in ­forgetting about principles. I think that is very important."

The Dalai Lama's visit comes at a sensitive time in his relations with China. His representatives started talks with Chinese government officials this month to discuss the recent unrest in Tibet. A new round of discussions is due in the second week of June.

There was expected to be a further sign of goodwill between the sides when it emerged on Wednesday night that the Dalai Lama would be sending his personal representatives to the Chinese embassy in London. His representatives were expected to pay their condolences to the victims of the recent Chinese earthquake.

China's decision to allow representatives of the Dalai Lama to be received at one of its overseas embassies in this way is highly unusual. The Dalai Lama's advisers are und-erstood to recognise that the Chinese earthquake has led to a huge wave of international support for Beijing.

However, the Dalai Lama said that only after the June meeting - and only after the Olympics are over - would it become clear whether Beijing was serious about his concerns.

The Dalai Lama is expected to meet Gordon Brown, the UK prime minister, on Thursday, although the meeting will not take place at the premier's official residence, Number 10 Downing Street.

Instead, they will meet at Lambeth Palace, official home of the Archbishop of Canterbury, head of the Anglican Church.

The government's decision to hold the meeting at Lambeth Palace is intended to underline that the UK sees the Dalai Lama as a spiritual leader and not as a putative head of state.