The statement puts to rest speculation that the Dalai Lama may be the last of Tibet's spiritual leaders, ending a line that stretches back centuries.

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.

Speaking at prayer celebrations ahead of his 90th birthday on Sunday, Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama said the centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist institution will continue after his death, ending