[15. Feb 2010] President Barack Obama’s upcoming meeting with the Dalai Lama has already angered China, but beyond the diplomatic tussle lies a running quandary: Can foreign pressure sway Beijing on Tibet?

Obama plans to receive the Tibetan spiritual leader on Thursday at the White House, ignoring China’s protests. The National Endowment for Democracy, which is funded by the US Congress, will also present the Dalai Lama with a medal.

Obama avoided meeting with the Dalai Lama last year in hopes of starting off his relationship on a good foot with China, which presses other nations to ostracise the internationally respected Buddhist monk. Read full story at Brisbane Times online