Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama has written to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressing his sympathy for the victims of the unprecedented floods in western Japan in recent days, his office said on Monday.
"I am writing to express my sadness over the loss of life, devastation of property and hardship caused to so many," he said in the letter.
"I have visited Hiroshima several times and am familiar with that part of the country. I feel a great sympathy for the families of people who have died and those who have lost their homes," the Dalai Lama said.
More than 100 people have been killed and dozens are missing after torrential rains unleashed floods and landslides in western Japan.
"I appreciate the efficient steps that are being taken to seek out and rescue those affected and provide relief. I pray for the success of the measures being taken.
"... I want to express my concern for all those facing distress as a result of this severe natural disaster," the elderly Buddhist monk said.
In conclusion, he wrote, "I would like to recommend that recitation of the 'Heart Sutra' would be of benefit at this sad time."
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