Dalai Lama Arrived in Prague on Monday, 17th October 2016. He was warmly received by a large gathering at Prague’s Hradčanské Square.

The exiled Tibetan spiritual leader gave a speech in front of Prague Castle

Dalai Lama gave a speech in front of Prague Castle, this meeting was one part of the ongoing Forum 2000 conference, taking place from October 16-19 in Prague and other European cities. Forum 2000, originally an initiative of late Czech president Václav Havel, aims to encourage democratic values and respect for human rights. This year’s theme is the “courage to take responsibility.”

From Dalai Lama’s speech:

TGM statue with Tibetan flag in front of Prague Castle, to greet Dalai Lama in Prague and support free Tibet

“I’m extremely happy to be here with you. I very much appreciate your warm feelings and your support for justice and truth.”

Dalai Lama’s arrival and speech at Hradčanské náměstí

“According to further scientific research basic human nature is compassionate. We are all born from a mother and grow up in the protection of her affection. Without that we would not survive. I’m quite sure too that being surrounded by people with love and affection helps us die in peace.”

Dalai Lama has come to Prague to attend the annual Forum 2000 conference.

“A calm mind brings physical well-being. Many of you young women spend money on cosmetics to make yourselves look beautiful, but since no one likes an angry face, it’s clear that the real beauty is inner beauty. The ultimate source of happiness is love and compassion—warm-heartedness.”

The Tibetan spiritual leader spoke in front of a large crowd at Hradčanské náměstí

“Since we are all part of humanity, our interest depends on our human brothers and sisters. If the rest of humanity is happy, we all benefit. I admire the spirit of the European Union, which, after decades and centuries of war, was formed to place the common interest above that of this or that nation. I look forward to seeing similar unions in Africa, Asia and Latin America and eventually a Union of the Whole World.”

Dalai Lama with Tibetan flag in Prague, October 2016

“Finally, let us keep the late President Havel’s vision alive across the world to ensure equality, freedom and compassion for all. Thank you.”