Thousands gathered to celebrate the spiritual leader and Nobel Peace laureate’s birthday in Dharamshala, which has served as the seat of the Tibetan government-in-exile and home of the Dalai Lama since he fled Tibet during a failed 1959 uprising against Chinese communist rule.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters that the country’s position on Tibet is consistent and well-known. Mao further stated that the Dalai Lama is a political exile and alleged that he has been involved in efforts to separate Xizang -- also known as Tibet outside China -- under the guise of religion.

The spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhists, the Dalai Lama, has turned 90. He celebrated his birthday Sunday, capping a week of festivities during which he spoke about his hope to live beyond 130 and reincarnate after dying.