The Dalai Lama today held made an address followed by a question-and-answer session at the Council of Europe in Strasbourg.

Tibet’s exiled spiritual leader praised the European Union, stating that despite the needs of sovereign states, “common interest is more important”.

He also addressed his struggle with the Chinese authorities (who have criticised his visit) saying that the People’s Republic of China “must respect our unique culture, including language and rich Buddhist philosophy”, but underlined that Tibet was not seeking independence.

Among the political issues addressed in his speech he also made time for jokes, at one point showing the audience how he liked to cool down by putting a wet towel on his head.