The memorial service, organised by the Office of Tibet at Gokokuji Temple in Tokyo on 8 February, was part of the global solidarity vigil called by the Central Tibetan Administration. Prayers were offered in both Tibetan and Japanese languages. A candlelight vigil also organised in the evening.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama's Representative to Japan, Mr Lhakpa Tshoko, and his staff attended the vigil. Mr Lhakpa Tshoko addressed the gathering about the deteriorating human rights situation in Tibet. He reiterated the Central Tibetan Administration's deep concern over the self-immolation incidents and the Chinese authorities' killing of peaceful Tibetan demonstrators for simply claiming their basic rights. He also reiterated the Central Tibetan Administration's urgent call for support from the international community to press the Chinese government towards resolving the Tibet's problem through dialogue.

The map was part of a business proposal to the People Insurance Company of China (PICC) who only found the error after the actual interview. Subsequently, PICC officials have asked Daiwa to remake the map and to offer a formal appology.

According to newssite www.wantchinatimes.com the matter was also reported to the China Securities Regulatory Commission as well as the China Insurance Regulatory Commission who are now considering their next move in this politically sensitive issue.

The Japanese company itself put the error down to "negligence", but several security experts have expressed doubts that the alternative map could be excused as merely "unprofessional".

His Holiness offered his condolences to the families that have lost loved ones and prayers for the deceased and others affected by the devastating floods.

As a token of sympathy and concern, a donation is being made from The Dalai Lama Trust to support relief work.

Prior to leaving Delhi for Europe, Dr Sangay will attend a conference of Asian youth leaders in New Delhi on 19 November.

Kalon Tripa will visit seven European countries including Switzerland, during which he will meet members of parliament, political analysts, support groups and the media. He will also meet and speak to members of the Tibetan communities based in these countries.

Kalon Tripa will return to Dharamsala on 5 December.

The offering of "katas" or white scarf is an auspicious Tibetan tradition for welcoming and the start of a good relationship. Ambassador Miloslav Stasek refused to disclose any information about the issues he will take up with The Nobel Peace Prize laureate, His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

"I am here till Friday and this is not an official visit, I can't say anything about the meeting at the moment," he told reporters at the airport.