For much of the past century, the Dalai Lama has been the living embodiment of Tibet’s struggle for greater freedoms under Chinese Communist Party rule, sustaining the cause from exile even as an increasingly powerful Beijing has become ever more assertive in suppressing it.

The statement puts to rest speculation, started by the Dalai Lama himself, that he may be the last of Tibet's spiritual leaders.

The Tibetan Buddhist leader, who turns 90 on Sunday, appears concerned that Beijing will sweep in after his death to install the next Dalai Lama.