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The Dalai Lama has always pledged to use non-violent means to ensure that Tibetan culture, tradition and identity are recognised by the Chinese government. However, disappointingly, the latest round of talks ended in failure. Beijing has rejected the middle path proposed by the Tibetan side, saying it was a demand for independence in disguise. China has not changed its attitude towards the Dalai Lama, seeing him as a Tibetan leader fighting for independence.

But the truth is the Dalai Lama has been calling for pacifist measures to attain autonomy for Tibet within China. But Beijing's hard-line attitude has not helped at all. This attitude has given ample ammunition to young Tibetans overseas, who are frustrated at the lack of progress in their demand for autonomy. Now they want something new, something that would give them hope that a Tibet homeland is possible.

For a week, the Tibetans in exile have debated their future but they could not agree on which road to take - autonomy or independence? It also showed how difficult it was for the Tibetans to foresee their future. Obviously, they believe that engagement with China, despite its non-receptive posture, must continue, otherwise all hopes could be dashed. Some of them thought the Tibetans must choose independence instead.

While the Dalai Lama is still alive, it is important for the Tibetans to agree on their future path. Otherwise, it could further divide the exile groups and make their quest in the future more difficult.