China and Dalai Lama begin talks

BEIJING, May 4 (UPI) -- Chinese leaders met with the Dalai Lama's representatives in Beijing Sunday for the first time since fighting began in Tibet, an official said.

Sunday's opening session will be followed in coming days by additional meetings, said Tenzin Takhla, the secretary to the Dalai Lama.

Beijing has been the focus of global pressure to renew talks with the Dalai Lama, CNN reported.

Chinese President Hu Jintao said he is hopeful the meetings will bring forth positive changes.

"I am confident that through joint efforts by both sides, this visit will be able to achieve the expected results," he told reporters.

China reportedly has said it wants the Dalai Lama to help bring an end to anti-Chinese demonstrations in Tibet that could get in the way of the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.