CANADA: Andrew Bennett, Canada’s Ambassador for Religious Freedom, yesterday issued the following statement on the occasion of the 80th birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama:

“I extend my warmest wishes to His Holiness the Dalai Lama as he marks his 80th birthday today. An internationally respected spiritual leader, Nobel laureate and honorary Canadian citizen, His Holiness has worked tirelessly to promote human rights and religious freedom. His message of compassion, peace and human dignity resonates across Canada and is an inspiration to people around the world.”