Washington, Sept 09: Tibet's spiritual leader the Dalai Lama arrived in Washington today, ahead of an expected meeting with President George W Bush which would be sure to anger China. During his visit, the Dalai Lama, a frequent visitor to the United States, is also expected to meet Secretary of State Colin Powell and leading members of Congress.

He will also take part in a ceremony at the national cathedral in the US capital marking the September 11 attacks on New York and Washington two years ago. The Bush administration has yet to confirm that the President will meet the Dalai Lama, whom he last welcomed to the White House in May 2001.

But officials said last week the Dalai Lama would meet "appropriate" officials during his stay in Washington.

China, which has ruled Tibet since 1951, has already asked Washington not to welcome him. "The Chinese side expresses grave concern over this matter," a foreign ministry spokesman said in a statement last month.

"We have made representation to the American side over this matter, and have requested the US government strictly abide by its promise to recognize Tibet as a part of China, to not support 'Tibet independence', and to not allow the Dalai Lama to go to the united states to engage in activities to split China."

China views Tibet as a part of its territory and opposes any official contact between the Dalai Lama and any foreign government.

Bureau Report