China says it was a mistake for German Chancellor Angela Merkel to meet with the Dalai Lama in September and suggests she should apologize.

Premier Wen Jiabao said Wednesday that friends and partners sometimes make mistakes.  But he said, as long as they admit their errors and correct them, they can still remain friends.

Mr. Wen was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a meeting with EU leaders in Beijing.

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, right, is welcomed by German Chancellor Angela Merkel,

Ms. Merkel's meeting with the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader angered Beijing and prompted the cancellation of bi-lateral meetings in Germany. 

China also expressed displeasure at meetings the Dalai Lama held with leaders in the United States, Canada and Japan in recent weeks.

Beijing accuses the Dalai Lama of seeking political independence for Tibet.  But the exiled spiritual leader says he is only seeking autonomy.