Dalai Lama express sorrow over Libya’s devastating floods, donates to relief and rescue efforts

By Tenzin Dedan

DHARAMSHALA, Sept. 13: Tibetan Buddhist leaderHis Holiness the Dalai Lama expressed his deep sorrow for the victims of the catastrophic floods caused by storm Daniel that made landfall in Libya on Sunday.

The region of Derna which is the worst hit area was inundated by a tsunami-like torrent of floodwater, triggered by bursting dams amid the storm’s fury. Al Jazeera reported more than 6000 deaths on September 13 and a staggering 30,000 people is reported to be displaced in Derna alone by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Libya.

Following this tragic incident, the Buddhist leader in a letter wrote, “I pray for those brothers and sisters who have lost their lives and offer my heartfelt condolences to their families, as well as to others affected by this catastrophe.”

The Dalai Lama also acknowledged the efforts of the Libyan authorities and the international community, which have offered support to the rescue teams. “I am aware that the Libyan authorities and the international community through several international organisations are offering support to the rescue efforts and providing relief to the affected people. Such a show of international concern and assistance will go a long way towards mitigating the effects of this calamity,” he further added.

As rescue operations continue in Libya with international aid and support, the Dalai Lama has made an undisclosed donation to contribute to the cause. He affirmed, “As a token of my solidarity with the people of Libya affected by this tragedy, I have requested the Gaden Phodrang Foundation of the Dalai Lama to make a donation towards the rescue and relief efforts.”