Dharamsala, Mar 25: Buddhist religious head Karmapa Lama has termed the Tibetans' urge for freedom as genuine, and has called for peaceful means to fight Chinese suppression.

Speaking to media persons, the 17th Karmapa Lama, Ogyen Thrinley Dorje, said that he sympathizes with the Tibetan exiles and understands their frustration.

He expressed hope that the situation in Tibet would return to normal soon.

Dorje also said that the Tibetan identity must continue to exist and all steps should be taken to preserve the community.

The Karmapa Lama is the head of the Karma Kagyu Sect of Buddhism.

The Karmapa escaped to India in January 2001 after an arduous 1,400- km (875-mile) journey through the snow-bound Himalayas. He is now settled in Dharamsala, the headquarters of the Dalai Lama. (ANI)