Updated

The White House says President Obama will proceed with plans to meet with the Dalai Lama, despite China's opposition.  Deputy Press Secretary Bill Burton told reporters traveling with the President that the U.S. considers Tibet part of China, and urged the Chinese to respect Tibet's cultural and religious traditions.

China warned today that any such meeting would threaten its relationship with the U.S.  Beijing has long opposed meetings between foreign allies and Tibet's spiritual leader, though past U.S. presidents have defied the Chinese and have met with the Dalai Lama.

The White House has not set a date for the meeting, but it's expected to coincide with the Dalai Lama's visit to the U.S. this month.