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.

The Dalai Lama said he will be reincarnated after he dies, and no one can interfere with the matter of succession. The Chinese government, however, claims authority over the his succession.

The exiled spiritual leader said only the organization that he founded can recognize the future reincarnation as anxiety mounts over whether Beijing will interfere with the process.