New Delhi, March 29: The Dalai Lama said Saturday that China deserved to host the Olympic games despite the crackdown on Tibetan protestors but urged Beijing to respect civil rights and freedom of religion.

Concerned over China's handling of the riots in Lhasa, some European countries have not ruled out the possibility of boycotting at least the Olympic opening ceremony.

The Tibetan spiritual leader told reporters here that China deserved to host the Olympics. "At the same time, they should be reminded that if they want to be respected as hosts, civil rights and religious freedom should be improved."

He also felt that there should be no disruption of the Olympic torch relay as it passed through several countries including India.