His Holiness offers his condolences to the victims of the Earthquake in Kyigudo

With over 600 dead and over 300 missing, the earthquake in the the Yushu region of China was the nation's most devastating in over two years. Yesterday, His Holiness released this statement offering his condolences to the victims and their families.

I am deeply saddened by the loss of life and property as a result of the earthquake that struck Kyigudo (Chinese - Yushu) this morning.

We pray for those who have lost their lives in this tragedy and their families and others who have been affected. A special prayer service is being held at the main temple (Tsuglagkhang) here at Dharamsala on their behalf.

It is my hope that all possible assistance and relief work will reach these people. I am also exploring how I, too, can contribute to these efforts.