The Chinese government has spoken out about the Dalai Lama’s appearance at the Glastonbury Festival, saying it is strongly opposed to any organisation which gives the exiled spiritual leader a platform.

The 79-year-old Tibetan is set to appear at the festival on Sunday to promote his message of “compassion, non-violence and the oneness of humanity”, his representatives said.

But Chinese foreign affairs ministry spokesman Lu Kang claimed the Dalai Lama could use the visit for the purposes of “conducting anti-China secessionist activities in the name of religion”.

Beijing’s Xinhua news agency reported foreign ministry spokesman Mr Lu told a daily press briefing: “We oppose any organisation using any means to offer occasion for the Dalai Lama to conduct anti-China secessionist moves.”

Downing Street steered clear of the row, with the Prime Minister’s spokeswoman saying it was an issue for festivalgoers when asked if David Cameron was concerned about Chinese displeasure.

The Dalai Lama’s visit has also raised security fears, with hundreds of people expected at protests against his presence in the UK.

After his Glastonbury appearance, the Dalai Lama is travelling to Aldershot in Hampshire, where he will open a Buddhist community centre.

His visit will be marked by protests by the International Shugden Community (ISC), who claim the Dalai Lama is engaged in the persecution of Shugden Buddhists in Tibetan exile.