In a letter to the Australian Prime Minister, the Dalai Lama has offered his “…deep sympathy and heartfelt condolences to all those families…” affected by the bushfires in Victoria.

H. E. Mr. Kevin Rudd, M.P.
Prime Minister
Parliament House
Canberra, ACT 2066
AUSTRALIA

Dear Mr. Rudd,

I am deeply saddened by the loss of so many lives and the devastation of houses, towns and sources of livelihood for many others following the shocking bush fires that have swept some parts of the state of Victoria over the last few days.

I extend my deep sympathy and heartfelt condolences to all those families who have been directly affected by what I understand are the worst bush fires in Australian history.

I offer my prayers for those who have lost their lives, the bereaved and those who have been injured.

Yours sincerely,

The Dalai Lama
11 February 2009