His Holiness then made the following remarks:

"Among all the various Buddhist traditions in the world, there is perhaps nothing as profound as the teachings we preserved in Tibet. And among those teachings, the 'Essence of Eloquence' is one of the most excellent. As for me, I too have memorized the entire text, although these days I sometimes forget some of it. In any case, as I listened to you recite it by heart, I clearly remembered its meaning which brought me special joy. It was very good. I thank you all for reciting it here today.

“With the passage of time, things have greatly deteriorated inside Tibet. Since I arrived here in exile, I have continued to study the great texts as much as I could. I would like to thank the Dharma friends who have provided favourable conditions and removed obstacles to this. As I mentioned earlier, we kept the purest collection of Buddhist teachings in the world alive in Tibet.

“These days in China too, there is a strong interest in Buddhism. Therefore, I think that it would be good if we could gradually spread the Buddhist teachings we have studied in Tibet into mainland China in Chinese. We Tibetans have eaten delicious Chinese food. Now, perhaps it is time to share with our friends the teachings we have studied for so many years on the basis of logic and extensive explanations. Many changes are taking place in mainland China, and interest in Buddhism is growing stronger. I am very happy today to see here people from Taiwan who can recite the 'Essence of Eloquence' from memory. Eventually, there will definitely be opportunities to teach and study this excellent text in China too. I thank you all."

His Holiness gave audience one by one to the 250 devotees from Taiwan, the monks and nuns who had recited from memory and their supporters, and an additional group of Mongolians. As they saw His Holiness off, the Taiwanese monks and nuns chanted the prayer to Arya Tara.

When His Holiness reached the gate to his residence he was welcomed by today’s Chief Guest, Dr Eliska Zigova, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to India, President of the Central Tibetan Administration, Sikyong, Penpa Tsering, Parliamentary Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel and Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo, as well as Tashi Namgyal and representatives of the former students of several Tibetan schools who contributed to the organization of today’s event. They escorted him to his seat in the veranda below the temple. Tibetan performers sang and danced to greet him.

While bugles played, Sikyong Penpa Tsering raised the Tibetan flag. Artistes from the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts then sang the Tibetan National Anthem followed by the Indian National Anthem to the accompaniment of pipes and drums. The Chief Justice Commissioner, Parliamentary Speaker and Sikyong offered His Holiness a mandala with representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha. This ritual was repeated by Tashi Namgyal and 24 representatives of former students of seven residential Central Schools for Tibetans (CST) in India, the Tibetan Children’s Village, Dharamshala, the Tibetan Homes Foundation, Mussoorie and Tibetan Day Schools in India and Nepal, who presented two beautiful statues of Avalokiteshvara Khasarpani to His Holiness.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering read the Statement of the Kashag marking today’s occasion, first in Tibetan then in English. He began by noting that this auspicious day marking the 75th anniversary of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s assumption of the spiritual and temporal leadership of Tibet is also being observed as part of the Year of Compassion celebrating His Holiness’s 90th year.

He recalled that a unified political empire first emerged in the Land of Snow during the time of the first Tibetan Emperor Nyatri Tsenpo in the third century BCE. During the reign of the Three Dharma Kings, the influence of the Tibetan empire extended far and wide across Asia. Under King Songtsen Gampo a Tibetan script was devised based on the Indian Gupta script. In due course, the pure Buddhist teachings of the Nalanda Tradition were brought to Tibet. In this period Tibet invaded the Chinese capital of Chang’an, presently Xi’an.

From the ninth century the Tibetan empire fragmented, but from the time of Drogön Chögyal until the establishment of the Gaden Phodrang a ‘priest-patron’ relationship existed with the Mongol, Ming and Manchu rulers of China.

In the early 20th century Amdo was invaded by the Muslim warlord Ma Bufang. Kham was invaded by the Manchu General Zhao Erfeng and Central Tibet was invaded by the British. After seizing power in China, the Kuomintang (the Chinese Nationalist Party) annexed parts of Amdo and Kham and repeatedly challenged Tibetan government forces on the border. Following the establishment of the communist People’s Republic of China in 1949 the People’s Liberation Army occupied parts of Amdo and Kham culminating in the capture of Chamdo and the defeat of the Tibetan army.

It was under these circumstances that the people of Tibet turned to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, beseeching him, although he was only 15 years old, to take responsibility for the leadership of Tibet. Thus, on 17th November 1950 he did so. For more than eight years he tried to negotiate with the Chinese, striving to protect Tibetan lives and preserve Tibet’s unique religious and cultural heritage, within the framework of the 17-point agreement that had been imposed on Tibetans. Sadly, in 1959, in the face of unrelenting PRC aggression, he was forced to go into exile in India.

On arrival in the holy land of India His Holiness repudiated the 17-point agreement, declaring it null and void. In the 1970s he proposed the Middle Way Approach to resolve the Sino-Tibetan conflict. This is the policy the Central Tibetan Administration continues to follow.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering praised His Holiness as a great Bodhisattva as revealed in his untiring efforts to fulfil his Four Commitments — promoting human values, interreligious harmony, ancient Indian wisdom, and the preservation of Tibet’s ecology and culture. He declared: “On this happy occasion we offer heartfelt prayers for the long life of His Holiness the Great Fourteenth Dalai Lama and the continuation of his enlightened activities for aeons to come.”

In his statement on behalf of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel mentioned that His Holiness visited China in 1954 and met with Chinese leaders. In 1956 he came to India to take part in the 2500th Buddha Jayanti. Here he met Indian leaders and particularly appreciated what he saw of India’s vibrant system of democracy. Back in Tibet, in 1959, he took his Geshé Lharampa exam during the Great Prayer Festival. On 17th March 1959, as the situation in Lhasa became increasingly dangerous, he slipped out of the Norbulingka Palace and fled Lhasa.

In exile in India His Holiness worked urgently to recreate circumstances in which monks and nuns could resume their studies and lead a monastic way of life. He planned and set up schools where children could be educated in a way that combined a modern curriculum with Tibetan tradition. He also took steps to establish a Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile. He entered into fruitful discussions with modern scientists about the nature of the mind and the achievement of inner peace.

In his early years in exile His Holiness appealed to the United Nations for help. Later, he sent fact-finding delegations into Tibet to appraise the situation there. Following his determination to resolve problems through dialogue, his representatives engaged in nine rounds of talks with Chinese authorities — to no avail. The Speaker appealed to the Chinese government to resolve the issue of Tibet during His Holiness’s lifetime. Finally, he too offered His Holiness heartfelt gratitude.

Tashi Namgyal, Chairman of the ex-Students Organizing Committee, spoke next referring to His Holiness’s deep concern for those Tibetans who had followed him into exile. He considered education to be of such importance that he encouraged the establishment of the first Tibetan school in exile in Mussoorie, providing support for it from his own funds. With the founding of Central Schools for Tibetans, Tibetan children learned their own language, history and religious traditions, while at the same time following a modern curriculum that included mathematics and so forth.

His Holiness encouraged his sister Tsering Dolma to set up the Tibetan Children’s Village in Dharamsala to look after the many Tibetan children who were orphans. His Holiness’s office provided funds for many schools that came up in Tibetan settlements. He would visit these schools himself to see how the children were getting on, showing them the kind of care usually expected from a parent.

To sum up, Tashi Namgyal remarked that Tibetan children achieved almost complete literacy and in due course grew up to become responsible and contributing members of the Tibetan community.

There followed a presentation to His Holiness of a Memento of Gratitude made of gold and silver depicting a pair of hands supporting an open book illuminated by a lamp of wisdom. Again, this was offered in profound gratitude for His Holiness’s boundless kindness.

A group of former students of the various Tibetan schools joyfully sang a song specially composed to express gratitude to His Holiness.

The Chief Guest, the Czech Ambassador to India, Dr Eliska Zigova addressed the gathering. “What is leadership?” she asked. “I think you’ll agree with me that we need good leadership. When we see how leadership is failing in several parts of the world, it makes this celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama assumption of the spiritual and temporal leadership of Tibet 75 years ago particularly significant.

“I was touched by the way former students expressed their gratitude to His Holiness. I was thinking too about how the young Dalai Lama shouldered responsibility for the nation and his people in such difficult circumstances, and then nearly nine years later had to leave Tibet. Thousands of Tibetans followed him. Concerned for their welfare, in 1960 His Holiness initiated the setting up of schools. We see here not only the alumni of those schools, but also the children who continue to study in them to this day.

“I visited the Tibetan Homes Foundation School in Mussoorie this April and I saw children not only being well educated but also well cared for. And what is amazing is that these children, the third generation in exile, speak fluent Tibetan. So, for the future of the Tibetan nation I pray for the long life of our spiritual leader — and I say our because he provides leadership for us all.

“As Czech Ambassador I would like to add one more thing. 17th November is an important date in the Czech calendar too. It was on this day in 1989 that the Velvet Revolution began. After 40 years communist rule was peacefully overthrown and Václav Havel became the first free Czechoslovak president.

“Our president invited His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Czechoslovakia because he felt his presence was important for his own leadership. The friendship between His Holiness and Václav Havel established a very important connection between Tibet and the Czech Republic. Wishing for peace, freedom and prosperity for all, I thank you very much”

Next, Dr Zigova was invited to launch a book, ‘Tibet’s History and the Legacy of His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama’ by Losang Jinpa Nampheltsang.

Kashag Secretary and Chairman of the Central Ghoton Organizing Committee Tsegyal Chukya Dranyi offered words of thanks. With folded hands he thanked His Holiness for gracing the occasion. He thanked the Chief Guest for her inspiring observations and the Sikyong and Speaker for their uplifting remarks. He thanked the guests and everyone in attendance for coming, especially the alumni of Tibetan schools in India, Nepal and Bhutan. Finally, he expressed appreciation to the members of the media and everyone who had helped behind the scenes.

His Holiness stood to leave and, smiling at well-wishers to the left and right, walked through the courtyard. At the gate to his residence, he boarded a golf-cart that would take him home. Meanwhile, in the courtyard behind him, celebrations continued as people sang and danced until it was time for lunch.

“Your many years’ experience in public service will serve you well in these trying times when the world is confronting immense challenges.” he wrote.

“In addition to your election crowning your personal achievements, I am pleased to note that your country has once more elected a woman President. As you may know, there is scientific evidence that when it comes to compassion, women are more sensitive to the feelings of others. I therefore believe that if more of our leaders were women, the world would be a more understanding, peaceful place.”

His Holiness ended his letter — “I wish you every success in meeting the challenges that lie ahead in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people of Ireland.”

When His Holiness reached the gate, he was greeted by representatives of the organizers, the All Mönpa Students’ Union and the Youths of Mönyul led by Lama Ngawang Norbu. He then walked from an archway of flowers at the head of the aisle up the centre of the yard, smiling and waving to well-wishers. The crowd sang gently in welcome.

Once His Holiness had taken his seat tea was served. Prayers for his long life were said based on the Invocation of the Sixteen Arhats. ‘Tsog’ was offered to His Holiness who took a portion and ate it. Then the Chant-master offered a mandala requesting him to live long. Lama Ngawang Norbu, who is also President of the Tendhön Cultural Preservation Society, Tawang, also offered a mandala with three representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha.

As 'The Song of Immortality - The Extensive Prayer for the Long Life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama' by his two tutors was chanted, members of the organizers approached His Holiness to receive his blessings while a procession of people bearing offerings filed past.

His Holiness addressed the gathering:

“I was recognised as the reincarnation of the previous Dalai Lamas. I studied principally with Ling Rinpoché and others. Under difficult circumstances I came to India. Since then I have visited many different countries across the world, and people are pleased to see me. I was born in Amdo and have spent most of my time trying to benefit the teachings and sentient beings. I am concerned about the teachings and the people of Tibet. This is how things have been since I came to India. I visit holy places in India such as Bodhgaya and I’m able to benefit Buddhists who come from Tibet, and I feel eventually I’ll be able to benefit Buddhists in China too.

“I’ve reached quite an age, but I’m in good health, so I am able to be of service to the teachings. I’ve had the opportunity to really serve the Buddhist doctrine and those who have faith in it.

“When I left Norbulingka, I made a prayer for the welfare of the teachings and sentient beings, especially for the people of Tibet. As we crossed the Tsangpo river I felt sad, but the boatmen consoled me. They told me — ‘Even though you may have to leave Lhasa for the time being, don’t be sad, your good deeds in connection with Tibet’s religious and political welfare will not fail, wherever you are.’ How kind they were? My mind was reassured, and eventually I reached India. After that I visited many parts of the country as well as many other parts of the world and I always kept a pure motivation. I did whatever I was physically able to do, while maintaining a single-pointed pure motivation. I’ve never wavered from that. Although I have faced physical difficulties, I’ve always made an effort and met the challenges I faced with courage.

“As a result of my travels my name has become quite well-known. I’ve been able to help many people a little by explaining Buddhist teachings. I’ve worked hard and I will continue to do so. When I first arrived in India people seemed pleased to see me. This hasn’t changed. Wherever I go now, people are pleased to see me.

“You people from Mön-Tawang have come here and made sincere prayers for my long life as well as requests to Chenrezig. You’ve made these prayers as a mark of your faith and trust in me.

“From when I wake up in the morning until I go to sleep again at night, and even while I’m asleep, I pray, ‘May the blessings of the Buddha come to those who have faith in me.’ Thus, I pray unchangingly to be of benefit to sentient beings and the teachings.

“You have gathered here today, inspired by faith — and I thank you. As well as these prayers we’ve been saying, I’ll give the oral transmission of the mantras of Chenrezig, Manjushri and Arya Tara.”

His Holiness first recited a prayer to Chenrezig — With a beautiful pure white body unspoilt by any flaw, whose head is crowned by a fully enlightened Buddha, you gaze upon sentient beings with a mind of compassion. I prostrate to you O Chenrezig.

Noting the special bond between Chenrezig and the people of Tibet and the Himalayan region, His Holiness asked the congregation to repeat Om mani padmé hung three times after him and then to join him in saying it for one ‘mala.’

Next, His Holiness recited a prayer to Manjushri — You who appear in the form of a youth and light the great lamp of wisdom that dispels the darkness of the world,

I prostrate to you O Manjushri.

“We may have a pure motivation to be of benefit to others,” His Holiness remarked, “But without the discernment that comes with wisdom we won’t really know what is helpful and what is not. With wisdom, you can analyse the meaning of reality. When compassion is combined with wisdom there is nothing greater than that for yourself or others.

“In my own case I attribute my sharpness of mind to my having recited the mantra of Manjushri. Even now, when children come to me, I teach them this mantra. Reciting it brings us analytical, clear, swift, profound and discursive wisdom.”

Finally, His Holiness observed that Arya Tara is unlike any other deity in her embodiment of the virtuous activity of the enlightened ones and her defence against the eight fears. And with that he asked the congregation to repeat her mantra three times after him.

A thanksgiving mandala was offered by the All Mönpa Students Union, led by their President, in gratitude for His Holiness’s having accepted their request that he live long. This was followed by the prayer for his long life in a single verse and the ‘Prayer of the Words of Truth.’

While everyone in the congregation was able to approach the throne and meet His Holiness in a receiving line, various singers sang poignantly to express their wish that he lives long. After His Holiness had returned to his residence, members of the congregation remained in the yard continuing to sing in joyful celebration.

Today’s prayers took place as part of the ongoing ‘Guru Bum-tsog’, a Hundred Thousand tsog offerings to Guru Padmasambhava, being conducted by the Dhanglob community. This ritual will culminate tomorrow, the tenth day of the Tibetan month. In addition to this collection of prayers, the organizers have repainted the boundary wall of His Holiness’s compound in traditional white and maroon.

In the temple His Holiness was greeted by the Abbot of Ganden Shartsé Monastery, the Abbot of Drepung Gomang Monastery, the Abbot of Gyutö Monastery, the Ganden Tri Rinpoché, the Sharpa Chöjé, the Abbot of Namgyal Monastery, Thomtog Rinpoché, as well as the young reincarnation of Lhagyala Rinpoché. Today, Thomtog Rinpoché was the presiding master conducting the Amitayus Longevity Ritual composed by the Fifth Dalai Lama with the support of an estimated 3500 people. To his right sat the Dorjé Löbpön and to his left the former Dorjé Löbpön of Namgyal Monastery.

At a certain point in the ritual Thomtog Rinpoché took up the Long-Life Arrow, which is wrapped in coloured silk and adorned by a mirror, and waved it in the space before him to indicate the gathering of positive accomplishments. He then gave it to His Holiness who repeated the gesture.

Three monks presented a substantial plate of ‘tsog’ to His Holiness who took and ate a portion before dipping his finger into the proffered nectar and tasting it.

Thomtog Rinpoché, with representatives of the organizers, offered His Holiness a mandala, representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha, a Long-Life vase, from which His Holiness took a drop of nectar, and a heap of Long-Life pills, one of which he ate. A set of various coloured ritual cakes associated with longevity were presented to him. Next, trays bearing representations of the eight auspicious symbols, the seven royal emblems and the eight auspicious substances were offered.

The Ganden Throne-Holder, Jetsun Lobsang Dorjee, the Sharpa Chöjé, Jetsun Ngawang Jorden, and representatives of the organizers, separately offered three representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha to His Holiness. In the meantime, a recitation of ‘The Melody of the Nectar of Immortality — a Prayer for the Long Life of His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, Supreme Victor and Omniscient One’ by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö took place.

A procession consisting of members of the Dhanglob community, which extended to the far end of the temple yard, passed through the temple bearing offerings of statues, scriptures and so forth. The line ended with a Tibetan flag and an elderly man dressed in white. 'The Song of Immortality - The Extensive Prayer for the Long Life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’ by his two tutors was recited.

Three young men standing at the far-end of the temple performed a contemporary song expressing a wish for His Holiness’s longevity, accompanying themselves on ‘dram-nyen’ and guitar.

Finally, a thanksgiving mandala was offered to His Holiness in gratitude for his accepting the request to live long. Representatives of the organizers approached the throne to receive his blessing, a ‘kata’ and a protective ribbon.

Among the concluding prayers was the ‘Prayer for the Flourishing of the Dharma’ that appears in Atisha’s collected works. However, it is said that he found it in the ‘Essence of the Moon Sutra’. This was followed by the ‘Words of Truth’ and the popular single verse prayer for His Holiness’s long life.

In the heavenly realm of Tibet, surrounded by a chain of snow mountains,
The source of all happiness and help for beings
Is Tenzin Gyatso— Chenrezig in person —
May his life be secure for hundreds of aeons.!

“No doubt your several decades of public service will serve you well in leading Japan at this crucial point in your country’s history when the world is facing great challenges,” he wrote. “Having experienced immense suffering as a result of being attacked with nuclear weapons, Japan has steadfastly taken the lead in its efforts to establish peace in the world. It has been a forthright champion of nuclear disarmament. Especially at times like these when there is such uncertainty and upheaval in many parts of the world, it is vitally important that concerted efforts be made to resolve problems through dialogue and diplomacy.

“In addition to your personal accomplishments, I am pleased to note that in you Japan has elected its first woman prime minister. I believe that women are more compassionate and sensitive to the feelings of others, qualities I first learned from my own loving mother. There is also scientific evidence that when it comes to compassion, women are more sensitive to others’ pain. I am therefore firmly convinced that if more of our leaders were women, the world would be a more understanding, peaceful place.

“May I wish you every success in meeting the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in strengthening happiness in Japan and the wider world.”

The event was organized by the Mind & Life Institute, Mind & Life Europe and the Dalai Lama Trust. The Secretary of the Trust and Director of the Dalai Lama Library and Archive, Jamphel Lhundrup, introduced the occasion.

This dialogue, he declared, like those that have preceded it over almost forty years, took inspiration from His Holiness’s vision to create a bridge between the wisdom traditions of the East and the discoveries of the West. In 1987, the first meeting of Mind & Life laid the ground-work for what is now a global platform. The Mind & Life Institute has brought together Buddhist scholars and scientists with expertise in neuroscience, physics, cosmology, biology, and contemplative wisdom. A connection has been established between the brain, mind and ethics. The work of the Institute has inspired monks and nuns to include the study of science alongside their traditional curriculum.

Chairman of the Mind & Life Board, Thupten Jinpa, pointed out in his opening remarks that this dialogue was taking place in His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th year, a period designated the Year of Compassion. He suggested that it could be regarded as an offering of practice.

He recalled that the first dialogue was organized by the brilliant Chilean scientist Francisco Varela and entrepreneur Adam Engle. They offered His Holiness a platform on which he could pursue his interest in science by bringing scientists to him. They created an opportunity for two invesigative traditions, Buddhism and science, to get to know each other.

Jinpa mentioned that His Holiness has two major objectives when he engages with scientists. One is to expand the horizons of scientific enquiry itself, to move beyond the material paradigm. He wants to bring into focus the mind side of the story, including lived contemplative experience. Meanwhile, science has developed sophisticated technology to achieve brain imaging which enabled the recognition of neuroplasticity. The Mind & Life Institute has played a huge role in opening up investigations beyond a reductionist understanding of human experience and consciousness.

His Holiness’s second objective is to see how science can serve humanity. He sees having a compassionate motivation as crucial to this.

Thupten Jinpa reported that he was fascinated by His Holiness’s underlying belief that insight could emerge through dialogue — a truly insightful discovery. Often in the West, he said, academic meetings are more like monologues. The scientist presents his or her paper, takes a couple of questions and sits down. Mind & Life imagines clear understanding emerging from collective dialogue. It creates a space to allow people to think collectively, to think aloud together. And the nature of this dialogue is multi-disciplinary.

Thupten Jinpa revealed how happy he was that the theme of this year’s dialogue was ‘Minds, Artificial Intelligence and Ethics’ because how human beings come to coexist with AI is going to be a defining question of our time. He observed that we will have to dig into the deepest, most diverse resources of human knowledge to prevent the terms of the discussion and debate being taken over by loud voices. Humanity’s future is at stake.

He added that he was looking forward to seeing how the “magic” of Mind & Life unfolds in this connection. He conceded his interest in AI, but, lacking access to research, finds himself unable to be sure about what is real and what is hype.

The dialogue unfolded in six two-hour sessions. Panels of four presenters were drawn from the following faculty: Emily M. Bender, University of Washington; Ani Choyang, Jangchub Choeling Nunnery; Molly Crockett, Princeton University; Robert Cummings, University of Mississippi; Marc-Henri Deroche, Kyoto University; Jason Gabriel, Google DeepMind; Shaun Gallagher, University of Memphis; Peter Hershock, East-West Center; Merve Hickok, Center for Al and Digital Policy; Thupten Jinpa, Mind & Life Institute Board Chair; Khangser Rinpoche, Gyuto Monastery; Sasha Luccioni, Hugging Face; Chiara Mascarello, University of Padua; Kate Nave, University of Edinburgh; Anat Perry, Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Geshé Lodoe Sangpo, Gaden Jangtsé Monastery; Murray Shanahan, Imperial College London, Google DeepMind; Luc Steels, University of Brussels; Geshé Thabkhé, Sera Jay Monastery; Marieke van Vugt, University of Groningen.

Each speaker had ten minutes to make their presentation. This was followed by discussion among the members of the panel. Then, after a short break, members of the audience were able to ask questions.

During the final session in the afternoon of Thursday 16th October, Luc Steels, a member of the Program Planning Committee as well as a presenter gave a thorough summary of the main themes of the meeting. Firstly there was discussion of the potential for AI to alleviate suffering, to promote equity and social harmony, as well as supporting flourishing on earth. Secondly, the risks AI poses to health and well-being, for work, education, politics and climate action were examined. Thirdly, the meeting examined what kind of ethical quality might and should human beings infuse into artificial forms of intelligence such that it avoids harmful effects and instead benefits the well-being of all on earth.

These major themes were divided into five sessions. The first was about mind from a philosophical point of view. The next was about disentanglement and meaningful relationships. The third session was about collective narratives and possible futures. Then there was a session about diversity and ethics and finally a session on education.

Four questions came up in all these sessions. The first was to ask what AI is doing right now and what we can do with it? The second concerned what the impact of using it will be on us and on society. These are questions about AI as it is now. But presenters were also interested in the future, and there was a general sense that the future can be created and has to be created by human beings. The meeting offered an important opportunity to set the direction for what AI can do in the future and how we get there.

So, what does AI do now? There were various examples of ChatBots, but the meeting largely focussed on those applications that are relevant to us as human beings. Many other conferences have talked about what AI can do for data science or analysis of date and so forth. The point here was to focus on topics that concern human beings.

There were a couple of warnings. The first was that we should not be too carried away by the hype that is created by the PR departments of big companies. We should remain calm and take a critical view of AI.

Shaun Gallagher made the point that could be called the ‘Turing test fallacy’, that there is a big difference between simulating something and actually being it. So, if a chatbot says “I feel compassion for you,” these are just words and we should not be tricked into believing that that system has compassion or feels compassion.

Thubten Jinpa advised that we have to be careful about how we use language. There is a slippery slope when we start to use words that make sense in a human context and apply them to other situations or entities. Molly Crocket referred to not getting caught by techno-optimism or human pessimism. We should not forget the primacy of human beings in all of this. Human being are way beyond what current machines can do and this will remain the case for the forseeable future.

Emily Bender pointed out how careful we must be about the anthropomorphizing AI, not reading too much into what we see or what we’re told.

If we ask what is the impact now? of course the impact is huge, and there’s more of that coming. Jinpa talked about creating a new reality. A new reality we become part of whether we like it or not, depends on how far we are willing to go to play in the theatre being created by AI. The point has been made that when recipients of certain texts or users of certain chatbots and so on realize that what they are dealing with is AI, their attitude changes. It’s important to be alert to this.

Presenters and members of the audience were especially concerned about the impact of AI on children and young adults. AI has appeared in the world but we don’t know what its effects on mental development will be. There has not been enough research. We are all like guinea pigs. In connection with our children and grandchildren much more care must be taken.

Sacha Luccioni drew attention to the use of resources — another major problem. While everyone was trying to save energy, a technology has been developed that completely undermines those efforts.

With regard to possible futures for AI Luc Steels remarked that one word he had heard a lot was compassion — something to strive for. Another key word was responsibility — because with power comes responsibility. It was agreed that there should be more transparency, more attention to values, and more leverage for educators. Geshé Lodoe Sangpo recommended that we use AI to connect not to avoid. AI cannot love, he said, but it can help us love better. There is a need to use AI to bring about change and inner growth not conflict. Keeping this in mind, we can co-create the future, but to do so we have to take action.

When presenters and guests of Mind & Life Institute and Mind & Life Europe attended a receiving line audience with His Holiness today he told them:

“If we can hold these kind of dialogues every now and then it will be really wonderful. From a Buddhist point of view too, engaging in such dialogues, rather than performing rituals and so on is very helpful. If conditions remain stable, Mind & Life can continue into the future.

“On my part, I studied in the philosophical tradition and practised debate when I was in Lhasa, taking both the challenging and responsive points of view. When we study, we are applying our minds. In my own case, when I was studying I too used my mind. Of course, when I studied as a child there was also an element of fear involved because I was afraid that my teacher might punish me.

“Scientists can take advantage of the logic and epistemology, the critical thinking, involved in our Buddhist traditions. They can benefit from them.

“These days I cultivate the awakening mind of bodhichitta every morning when I wake up, praying that all those who place their trust in me will be well. My life is totally dedicated to the welfare of others.

“I am a religious leader wearing monk’s robes, but when I give a talk I often invoke science. This is because the critical thinking we engage in is comparable to scientific inquiry.

“The moment we are born of our mother there is experience. We have feelings rooted in consciousness. Therefore, understanding how the mind works is important because life is underpinned by mind.”

“In devoting yourself to democratic development,” he wrote, “you have shown steadfast courage in the service of others.

“By your own example you have reminded us of the need to speak out in defence of democracy and freedom.

“In your work to bring people together for a common cause you embody hope that peace and harmony can be achieved.”

In conclusion His Holiness offered her his prayers and good wishes,

As the golf-cart His Holiness was riding drove steadily along the corridor through the courtyard, and as he walked from the lift to the temple, His Holiness smiled and waved, exchanging greetings with members of the crowd.

In the temple His Holiness took his seat facing Samdhong Rinpoché, the presiding master, and to Rinpoché’s left, Thomtog Rinpoché, Abbot of Namgyal Monastery and the Abbot of Gyutö Monastery, while to Rinpoché’s right sat Jonang Gyaltsab Rinpoché, the Lobpön of Namgyal Monastery, Losang Dhargyey, and geshé’s from Namgyal Monastery.

Today, the longevity ritual was based on Amitayus and involved summoning the five groups of dakinis and making offerings to them. Meanwhile, tea and ceremonial sweet rice were served to everyone present.

Samdhong Rinpoché offered the long-life arrow to His Holiness who accepted it. After the seven-limb prayer had been said in a single verse, ‘tsog’ was presented to His Holiness who took a small portion. Next was recited the one verse long-life prayer composed by His Holiness at Dilgo Khyenté Rinpoché’s request.

You make the path that combines emptiness and compassion grow clearer and clearer,
Lord of the teachings and beings in the Snowy Land of Tibet,
To you, the Lotus Holder Tenzin Gyatso,
We pray: may all your wishes be spontaneously fulfilled!

Samdhong Rinpoché and representatives of the patrons and organizers of today’s prayers offered a mandala and representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha with the sincere request that His Holiness live for 100 aeons. His Holiness took a drop of nectar in his hand from the long-life vase and placed another drop in Samdhong Rinpoché’s hand. Longevity pills were proffered. Next were offered trays bearing representations of the seven royal emblems, the eight auspicious symbols, and the eight auspicious substances.

A procession of members of the organizing groups filed through the temple, presented the offerings they were carrying, such as statues of the Buddha, monk’s robes and so forth, and received His Holiness’s blessings.

There was a recitation of ‘The Melody of the Nectar of Immortality — a Prayer for the Long Life of His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, Supreme Victor and Omniscient One by Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö, which ends with the following verses:

As long as this earth, Mount Meru, sun and moon endure,
May you remain secure, invincible, on your vajra throne
In the celestial mansion of Potala, Avalokitevara's delight,
Your secret body, speech and mind forever changeless!

Through the grace of the three supreme deities of Long Life,
And the power of the truth of masters, yidams, buddhas and bodhisattvas,
May all that we have prayed for be blessed
And so accomplished without any obstacle!

This was followed by the ‘Song of Immortality — The Extensive Prayer for the Long Life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama by his two tutors that repeats the following verse like a refrain:

To you, we offer our prayers with fervent devotion:
That Tenzin Gyatso, protector of the Land of Snows, live for a hundred eons.
Shower on him your blessings
So that his aspirations are fulfilled without hindrance.

There followed a moving performance when three singers, laymen, at the back of the temple, who sang a song in Tibetan made popular by Tsering Gyurmey — ‘Tsawai Lama’, ‘My Beloved Root Guru’. From around the temple and in the courtyard below the congregation eagerly joined in.

O my Root Guru
Your Holiness, the Victorious Tenzin Gyatso —
For the welfare of the Tibetan people and all sentient beings
You have graciously shouldered both spiritual and temporal responsibilities.

In a year or two,
May the radiant sun of happiness rise once more.
When that light of joy dawns,
May we return to our beloved homeland.

Upon our return,
To the sacred Potala Palace,
We humbly pray —
Grant us the blessing of an audience with your for a long time to come.

The song concluded with the exclamation ‘Böd Gyalo’, ‘Victory for Tibet’.

An invocation of Guru Padmasambhava was said in connection with a request to help overcome misfortune and dark forces. A thanksgiving mandala was offered in gratitude for His Holiness have agreed to live long.

To bring the ceremony to a fitting conclusion, the congregation recited ‘The Sage's Harmonious Song of Truth — A Prayer for the Flourishing of the Non-Sectarian Teachings of the Buddha’. This prayer which was written by His Holiness ends with the following two verses:

May all who see me, hear my voice, think of me or put their trust in me,
Experience the most glorious happiness and virtue!
And may even those who insult, punish, strike or disparage me,
Gain the good fortune to set out upon the path to awakening!

In short, for as long as space endures,
And for as long as there is suffering among beings,
May I too remain, to bring them benefit and happiness,
In all ways, directly and also indirectly!

There was a recitation of the ‘Prayer of the Words of Truth’ and the prayer for the flourishing of the awakening mind:

May the precious, supreme awakening mind
Arise in those in whom it has not yet arisen;
And where it has arisen may it not decrease
But ever increase more and more.

His Holiness left the temple and made his way down to the courtyard where he boarded the golf-cart. While monks led the way playing traditional horns, as His Holiness crossed the courtyard smiling and waving, the crowd broke spontaneously and joyfully into singing ‘Tsawai Lama’ once more.

“Today, the world is facing many difficulties,” he wrote. “It is a time when basic human values are being challenged. I believe that as religious leaders we have a special responsibility to bring them to public attention again. All religions counsel forgiveness, patience and compassion and ways to cultivate them. These are practical qualities we can fruitfully share with others.

“I am very happy to note that you will be the first female leader of the Anglican Church. As you may know, there is scientific evidence that when it comes to compassion, women are more sensitive to the feelings of others. It is therefore my firm conviction that if more of our leaders were women, the world would be a more understanding, peaceful place. Your appointment is a beacon of hope.”

His Holiness ended his letter by offering his prayers and good wishes.

As soon as His Holiness had taken his seat, two Taiwanese monks led a recitation of the ‘Heart Sutra’ in Chinese. After that a mandala was offered along with representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha.

“All of us are equal,” His Holiness began, “in that we all want to be happy and none of us wants to suffer. And we’ve gathered here to listen to how we might fulfil that goal. There are many religious paths in the world, but in Tibet we follow the Nalanda Tradition and study the works of masters such as Nagarjuna and Asanga, and their followers.

“As far as I’m concerned, I was born in the Kumbum region of Dhomé, and, after being recognized as the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, came to Lhasa where I studied with my tutors Ling Rinpoché and Trijang Rinpoché. I memorized the root texts of the five major topics, then read and listened to the great commentaries that explained them. The tradition of Buddha Dharma that we uphold is unique in that it follows reason and logic. It also includes intricate explanations of the workings of our minds and emotions. This is the tradition we have purely preserved.

“Today, people from the West who have no historical connection to the Dharma, are taking an interest in our tradition. There are even scientists among them who are particularly keen to know more about the mind and emotions. All of us here today are followers of the Buddha and the 84,000 heaps of his teaching, which I consider to be like treasure.

“Since I began my Buddhist education as a child I have studied the Perfection of Wisdom, the philosophy of the Middle Way, Logic and the Theory of Knowledge, Higher Knowledge and Monastic Discipline. From the beginning I engaged in debate based on what I’d learned from the Logic Primer. This approach, employing scrutiny and analysis, is very effective in helping us really understand what the Buddha taught.

“In addition to a detailed account of the workings of the mind and emotions, Tantra presents a further profound explanation of consciousness, including the varying subtlety of different states of mind.

“In a Buddhist context we talk about concern for all sentient beings, but the Tibetan people are those with whom I have a special connection. I intend to continue to serve them as best I can. Although the Chinese communists continue to rule in Tibet, a growing number of Chinese people are taking an interest in Buddhism and the Nalanda Tradition. Historically China was a Buddhist land and it seems that Buddhism may yet be reestablished there. I’ve done what I could to encourage this possibility and will continue to do so for the rest of my life.”

His Holiness announced that he would conduct the ceremony for cultivating the awakening mind of bodhichitta and taking the bodhisattva vows. He advised his listeners to imagine the Buddha, his seven successors, Manjushri, Maitreya and the great masters of India and Tibet in front of them. Then there was a recitation of the seven limb prayer followed by the verses for taking refuge and aspiring to achieve enlightenment, which he asked the disciples to recite three times after him.

I seek refuge in the Three Jewels;
Each and every wrongdoing I confess.
I rejoice in the virtues of all beings.
I take to heart the state of Buddhahood.

I go for refuge until I am enlightened
To the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Supreme Assembly,
In order to fulfil the aims of myself and others
I develop the awakening mind.

Having developed the aspiration for highest enlightenment,
I invite all sentient beings as my guests,
I shall enact the delightful supreme enlightening practices.
May I become a Buddha to benefit all sentient beings.

His Holiness told the audience that he was not especially enthusiastic about the Buddha’s teachings when he was very young. However, as he has grown older, he has come to appreciate how beneficial practices for transforming the mind can be. He mentioned that while followers of theistic traditions repose their faith in God, for Buddhists in Tibet and China it’s taking refuge in the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha that is most important. He recalled meeting very devout practitioners when he visited monasteries in Tibet whose faith, he felt, was stronger than his own.

His Holiness remarked that another aspect of the Buddhist tradition is related to karma, all kinds of positive and unwholesome karma we create, as well as the different degrees of subtlety of our minds. He stated that the Buddhist tradition upheld in Tibet was vast and profound — an excellent tradition.

“We all know,” His Holiness continued, “that we draw distinctions between ourselves and others. We think of our tradition as somehow different from theirs. What we should do is to appreciate all religious traditions. It may be that when we analyse other traditions there may be aspects that do not seem to measure up to us, but that’s no reason to challenge them.

“Sincere practice of religion involves disciplining the mind and taming your emotions. As followers of Shakyamuni Buddha, we should respect all religious traditions because they all have the potential to subdue their followers’ minds. This is why it’s important to admire them.

“When I was living under Chinese communist control there were frequently situations that could have made me angry, but then in 1959 I fled Tibet. I have wholehearted appreciation and faith in the Buddhist tradition that enables us to restrain our emotions and transform our minds.

“If you can cultivate a warm heart, as well as bodhichitta, and share this attitude with those close to you, you will feel relaxed and at ease and the people you relate to will be happy too.

“When I was in Beijing, I met Mao Zedong several times and on one occasion he told me in all seriousness that religion is poison. I said nothing, but I felt sorry for him because he had no idea how beneficial spiritual practice can be.”

His Holiness suggested that in addition to repeating the verse for taking refuge in the Three Jewels, the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha reciting mantras can provide inspiration. Consequently, by asking his listeners to repeat after him, he gave oral transmission of some common mantras — Buddha Shakyamuni’s, Arya Tara’s, Avalokiteshvara’s and Manjushri’s. In connection with Om ara patsa na dhi, the mantra of Manjushri, His Holiness disclosed that he was convinced that reciting this mantra and making prayers to Manjushri had helped him improve his intelligence and wisdom. He reiterated that reciting the mantras of Manjushri and Avalokiteshvara can really make a difference.

After giving transmission of the mantra of the Medicine Buddha he noted that people are sometimes concerned that they face obstacles in fulfilling what they want to do and recommended reciting the mantra of Hayagriva. He followed this by reciting the mantra of Guru Padmasambhava. Finally, he observed that most of the people in today’s gathering consider themselves Gelukpas and gave the transmission of the Mig-tse-ma verse in praise of Jé Tsongkhapa.

You are Avalokiteshvara, great treasury of objectless compassion
you are Mañjushri, embodiment of stainless wisdom;
you are Vajrapani, destroyer of all dark forces;
Tsongkhapa, Losang Drakpa, crown jewel among the learned of the Land of Snows, I pray at your feet.

The chantmaster then brought the session to a close by leading a rendition of 'The Song of Immortality — The Extensive Prayer for the Long Life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama' by his two Tutors, Ling Rinpoché and Trijang Rinpoché. His Holiness left the temple and as he walked to the lift smiled at all the well-wishers who lined the path trying to catch his eye. Reaching the temple courtyard he climbed into a golf-cart to ride back to his residence.

The courtyard was festooned with coloured cloth, hung with marigold garlands and decorated with an array of orchids. There was carpet on the floor. When His Holiness reached the gate to his residence he was greeted by representatives of the organizers of the event. The aisle to his throne in the veranda below the temple was lined by dancers costumed as lions and some of the artists who would dance for him later. As is his wont, His Holiness beamed with joy as he waved to those gathered to left and right. He stopped to salute monks belonging to the Pali tradition who sat at the head of the aisle.

The President of the Tibetan Buddhist Centre (Singapore) and Chairperson of the event, Ms. Ng Wee Nee, paid her respects to His Holiness, the members of the monastic Sangha and all other guests. She announced that those gathered were offering prayers that His Holiness lives a long life, in good health, and continues to turn the wheel of Dharma. She offered him a medallion representing this Year of Compassion in recognition of the good he has given the world.

Prayers for the His Holiness’s long life and world peace were chanted in Pali by approximately 30 Theravada monks led by Phramedivajrodom V. Vajiramedhi, Abbot of Rai Cherntawan International Meditation Center, Chiang Rai, Thailand, one of the co-organisers of the event. Meanwhile, 14 representatives of the organizers offered a mandala and representations of the body, speech and mind of the Buddha.

A joint statement on behalf of all the participants in the ceremony was read by Most Venerable Thich Nhat Tu, Vice Head of the Executive Board of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha; Deputy Chief Officer of Centre Committee, Vietnam. It recognised that His Holiness is the most renowned and respected global Buddhist leader, who embodies the ideals of peace, universal responsibility, and self-discipline, as well as religious and social harmony. It recalled the awards he has received, notably the Nobel Peace Prize, the United States’ Congressional Gold Medal, and the Templeton Prize.

The joint statement announced that His Holiness has devoted his entire life to strengthening Buddhist traditions while at the same time fostering interfaith dialogue. His unwavering commitment to nonviolence, environmental stewardship, and the preservation of Tibetan culture has inspired generations.

Therefore, the Assembly of Asian Buddhist Leaders and followers, gathered in Dharamsala to celebrate his 90th birthday, unanimously declared His Holiness the Dalai Lama to be ‘The Universal Supreme Patriarch of the Buddhist World.’ They also joyfully reaffirmed their dedication to building a truly harmonious and peaceful world, fulfilling his noble vision and the boundless compassion he exemplifies.

Next, seven representatives of the organizers and seven representatives of the Sangharaja and other Buddhist leaders presented a variety of gifts to His Holiness. The words of praise associated with the mandala offering were recited in English, beginning with the following verse invoking Avalokiteshvara:

In this realm surrounded by snow mountains,
The source from which all benefit and happiness arise,
May the lotus feet of Avalokiteshvara, Tenzin Gyatso,
Remain firm until the end of existence.

The prayer concluded:

May all the Buddha’s precious teachings, the sutra and tantra teachings of all Buddhist traditions, remain long. May all spiritual and temporal excellence in theworld flourish for hundreds of eons in accordance with the great compassionate activities and steadfast life of our precious leader, His Holiness the Great Dalai Lama.

Besides the Tibetan Buddhist Centre (Singapore) the following co-organizers were named: Labsum Shedrub Ling, South Korea; Persatuan Lamrim Buddhaksetra Retreat Centre (Malaysia); Vajrayana Buddhist Council of Malaysia; Rai Cherntawan International Meditation Center (Thailand); Kadam Choeling Indonesia; and Sriwijaya State Buddhist College of Tangerang Banten Indonesia.

Meanwhile a mandala offering was made by a second group consisting of the fourteen main sponsors and gifts were offered to His Holiness by 150 devotees.

At this point, on behalf of the organizers, the Master of Ceremonies requested His Holiness to address the gathering, which he did.

“Good morning, I’d like to share some of the experiences I’ve had in my life with you. I was born in Amdo, the northeastern part of Tibet. While still a child I moved to Lhasa in Central Tibet where I pursued my study of Buddhism starting with the logic primer called Collected Topics dealing with definitions of colour and so forth. I went on to study logic and epistemology, the philosophy of the Middle Way, Vinaya, the monastic code of discipline, and Abhidharma, although I didn’t take much interest in the way that tradition presented cosmology. I also studied the Perfection of Wisdom. Within my studies of Buddhist philosophy, I also explored psychology and cognitive aspects of the mind, how our minds engage with their objects.

“I studied with great fervour. I made prayers to the Buddha of Wisdom, Manjushri, to support my studies. While I was studying the various classic treatises I was greatly helped by my Tutors and Debate Assistants. In addition to studying, as part of my life, I cultivated meditation on the awakening mind of bodhichitta, the aspiration to enlightenment.

“Having completed my studies I sat for examinations, which involved going to the three great monastic centres of learning of Central Tibet, Sera, Drepung and Gaden Monasteries. I debated with a great number of illustrious scholars. When that was done, I sat for the final examination in the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa.

“I felt fortunate to have been someone from a remote village in Amdo, who was able to undertake the full course of studies and ultimately sit for the final exam. During this time my Debate Assistants were very helpful to me. However, one of these assistants was not so bright, so I found I was able to take advantage of that in debate with him.

“In any case, I considered the opportunity I’d had to complete my Buddhist studies and qualify for a Geshé degree to have been very important. In addition I engaged in the practice of the Three Higher Trainings—ethics, concentration and wisdom.

“Soon after taking my final examination, I had to flee Tibet because of the upheaval that was taking place. Before leaving Norbulingka, my Summer Palace, I visited the chapel that contained a statue of Six-armed Mahakala and I made prayers before him. Then, feeling sad, I secretly escaped Norbulingka and so began the journey to leave my homeland. At the same time, however, I felt confident because I was heading to India, a free country.

“When I reached India in 1959, I was given a very cordial reception by the Indian government led by Jawaharlal Nehru. He was very kind to me and the people who came after me. He gave us great help.

“After coming into exile, I had a great opportunity to share the knowledge and experience I had acquired in the course of my studies with the world. I had learned about minds and emotions as well as matter. The texts present varying degrees of subtlety of different states of mind and matter.

“Anyway, my main practice throughout my life has been cultivating the awakening mind of bodhichitta, the altruistic aspiration for enlightenment, and the view of emptiness.

“Today, you have all gathered here to offer prayers for my long-life. I would like to thank you all, especially the monastics, for coming to make these prayers. We haven’t gathered for the sake of amusement, but for spiritual reasons. As I said before I make it a point to cultivate bodhichitta and the view of emptiness on a daily basis. I also observe and uphold the Vinaya vows of a Buddhist monk. In addition, I reflect on the Perfection of Wisdom and Middle Way philosophy that I studied for so many years.

“In 1954 I went to China where I met Chairman Mao Zedong. At one point, when he told me that religion is poison, I felt a sense of compassion for his ignorance. Since coming into exile and reaching the freedom of India, I have shared my knowledge, experience and practice of the Dharma with anyone who was interested in learning about Buddhism, especially those who interested in learning more about the workings of our mind and emotions. There are a growing number of people eager to learn about the Tibetan tradition. I feel I have done my best to serve them.

“As I said earlier you have gathered here for spiritual reasons and to celebrate my 90th birthday. For all your prayers and offerings for my long life, and for all you do in your practice of the Dharma and in serving others, particularly the monastics, I’d like to thank you. I am also determined to serve others through the Dharma. As the Dalai Lama I have been able to create a positive state of mind within others, for which I feel fortunate.

“Thank you all for your prayers and for celebrating my 90th birthday. “

Next, the eight Southeast Asia countries: Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, Malaysia and Singapore presented graceful cultural performances. These included a peacock dance from Thailand, a long-life prayer in the form of a song, from Vietnam and a dance to invoke peace and harmony from Indonesia. Two women from Laos performed a dance representing the flower of love. Dancers from Myanmar, men and women, danced to the accompaniment of a saung, an ancient curved harp. Three women from Cambodia wearing golden crowns and ornaments, danced with similar golden flowers in their hands.

Dancers, men and women, from Malaysia whirled and span as they danced quickly and energetically to demonstrate unity and inclusiveness. Finally, a team of eight dancers from Singapore engaged in a high energy performance as mythical lions to a brisk drumbeat. There were two remarkably coordinated dancers within each lion costume. In the course of their performance one of the lions unfurled a written prayer for His Holiness’s long life, which was offered to him.

The excellent and entertaining performances stirred warm applause from the audience.

Mr. Wayne Phan from Tibetan Buddhist Centre (Singapore) gave a brief financial account mentioning how much money had been raised, how much had been spent, and a declaration that what remained would be given to the Dalai Lama Trust. Thanks were expressed to the organizers and a dedication prayer was said:

May the merit of this offering contribute to the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and to the establishment of genuine peace in the world.

“As India’s longest staying guest”, he wrote, “I have witnessed firsthand the far-reaching development and prosperity that have taken place over the years. I congratulate you on the growing confidence and strength that has occurred in recent times. India's success also contributes to global development.

“I consider myself a proud messenger of India, and regularly express my admiration for India, the world's most populous and largest democracy, for its remarkable and deeply rooted religious pluralism. India presents an example of harmony and stability to the world.

“For us Tibetans India has not only been the source of our spiritual heritage, but for more than sixty-six years, has also been our physical home. I would like to once again extend our deep gratitude to the Government and people of India for their warm and generous hospitality.”

His Holiness concluded by offering his prayers and good wishes.

“As you know, the Nepalese and Tibetan peoples have historically enjoyed a close relationship,” he wrote. “I am very grateful to the government and the people of Nepal for providing facilities for the rehabilitation of Tibetan refugees following their forced escape from Tibet after 1959. Indeed, although the Tibetan community is relatively small, I believe it has been making a notable contribution towards Nepal’s economic growth.

“Over the years, there has been significant development and increasing prosperity in Nepal in all spheres of life. Such achievements are all the more meaningful when they really improve the lives of poor and needy people.”

His Holiness concluded, “I wish you every success in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people of Nepal in these challenging times. With my prayers and good wishes.”

“Along with many fellow Tibetan refugees, I have enjoyed warm hospitality in India since my forced escape from Tibet in 1959", His Holiness continued. “For this we are most grateful. As the longest staying guest of the Government of India, I have had the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life during my travels throughout the country.

“For thousands of years India has upheld the principles of ‘karuna’ and ‘ahimsa’. Today, understanding of these principles has spread far and wide. They have the potential to foster peace within individuals and the world at large. Moreover, India is the land of religious harmony, with so many different communities living here together.

“I often describe myself as a ‘son of India’ because my entire way of thinking has been shaped by the Buddhist training I have received, which is part of ancient Indian thought. As is well known, Tibetan Buddhist culture is firmly rooted in the traditions of reasoning and analysis developed by the scholar-adepts of Nalanda University.”

His Holiness concluded by wishing the Vice-President-elect every success in working to fulfil the hopes and aspirations of the people of this great country.