The Chinese mainland Sunday reiterated its "resolute opposition" against the Dalai Lama's visit to Taiwan.

"The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has ulterior motives to instigate the Dalai Lama, who has long been engaged in separatist activities, to visit Taiwan," said a spokesman for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office.

"We resolutely oppose this and our position is firm and clear," the spokesman said.

"The Dalai Lama's visit to Taiwan is bound to have a negative influence on the relations between the mainland and Taiwan," the spokesman said.

"We will keep a close eye on the situation," the spokesman said.

(Xinhua News Agency August 31, 2009)