The majority of people in the United States have no problem with Barack Obama convening with the Dalai Lama, according to a poll by Angus Reid Public Opinion. 64 per cent of respondents agree with the planned meeting between the U.S. president and the Buddhist spiritual leader.
Obama and the Dalai Lama are scheduled to meet at the White House on Feb. 18. The announcement—which was widely expected—has angered the government of China, which sees the Dalai Lama and his influence over Buddhist Tibet as a threat to Chinese national unity.
On Feb. 11, White House spokesman Robert Gibbs said the scheduled meeting will go ahead, adding, “The Dalai Lama is an internationally respected religious leader and spokesman for Tibetan rights, and the president looks forward to an engaging and constructive dialogue.”
A day later, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Ma Zhaoxu renewed calls for Obama to reconsider his decision to meet with the Dalai Lama, saying, “We urge the U.S. side to fully understand the high sensitivity of Tibet-related issues, honour its commitment to recognizing Tibet as part of China and opposing ‘Tibet independence.’”
