The Dalai Lama begins preparations for his succession amid celebrations for his 90th birthday

Thousands of Buddhists around the world began celebrations for the 90th birthday of the Dalai Lama, spiritual leader of Tibet.

In this festive setting, the leader announced the creation of a formal process to define who will be his successor, in order to ensure the spiritual continuity of the Tibetan lineage.

"I will dedicate the rest of my life to the well-being of others," declared the Dalai Lama during the commemorative events.

The celebrations will continue until July 6, the date on which his birth is officially commemorated.