Dalai Lama celebrates anniversary in exile
Australian Broadcasting Corporation
19 Feb 2000
Celebrations are being held in the Dalai Lama's exiled headquarters in
India to mark the 60th anniversary of his enthronement.
Observers say the ceremony is an embarrassment for China and a
diplomatic dilemma for India, as it tries to thaw relations with
Beijing.
But Thubten Samphel, a member of the Tibetan government-in-exile, says
it is international pressure that will eventually make a difference in
China's relationship with Tibet.
"Whenever western leaders visit China...they have recently always raised
the issue with the Chinese leaders," he said.
"In a way we feel that the political leadership of the international
community have decided to put Tibet on their agenda in their discussions
with the Chinese leadership."
