The Dalai Lama has sent a letter of condolence to US President George Bush, urging him against a violent response to the terrorist attacks in New York and Washington.
The Tibetan leader said he would lead prayers for the dead and injured on Wednesday at his temple in Dharmsala, his exile headquarters in northern India.
''It may seem presumptuous on my part, but I personally believe we need to think seriously whether a violent reaction is the right thing to do and in the greater interest of the nation and the people in the long run. I believe violence will only increase the cycle of violence,'' he wrote.
''On behalf of the Tibetan people I would like to convey our deepest condolence and solidarity with the American people during this painful time,'' wrote the Dalai Lama. ''Our prayers go out to the many who have lost their lives, those who have been injured and the many more who have been traumatised by this senseless act of violence.''