Dalai Lama the Tibetan Spiritual Leader was facilitated by the J & K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, who is currently on a visit to Leh in connection with an annual Buddhist function.

   Mehbooba Mufti praised Dalai Lama for his recent statement in which he had    criticized the elements who were out to label Muslims as terrorists. The Dalai Lama had asked people to follow the path of harmony and amity with each other. She said the statement from such a towering personality was need of the hour and it reflects the unparalleled spiritual stature of the Dalai Lama.

   The Chief Minister wished Dalai Lama a long life and good health. She hoped that he would continue to visit the State in future and bless its people.

   The Chief Minister said it is the intention of her Government to attract more and more tourists to Ladakh and market it appropriately in the tourism market. She said she has proposed to have annual Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Leh which would increase the tourist footfall in the region by a great measure. She appreciated the people of Leh for maintaining a hygienic environment despite heavy tourist rush.

   The Dalai Lama in his address expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for her visit. He appreciated her massive public outreach saying that he is of the belief that she can get the State out of the difficulties with her sincerity, dedication and zeal.

View Point

  The Dalai Lama has lived in self-imposed exile in India since fleeing Tibet in 1959. His recent visit to Arunachal Pradesh drew strong reactions from China.

  So far China has not given any reaction to Dalai Lama's visit to Leh.