US first lady Michelle Obama, who had signaled that she’ll steer clear of controversy during her recent China tour, ended up creating a storm by visiting a Tibetan restaurant in Sichuan province, prompting thousands of Chinese to ask if she meant to indulge in domestic politics. She met some local Tibetans and sought to promote education and boost cultural ties. Sichuan province has witnessed a large number of self-immolation by protesting Tibetan monks.