In a letter to the family of late Tadeusz Mazowiecki, the first Prime Minister of Poland after the fall of communism in 1989, His Holiness the Dalai Lama expressed his sadness and offered his prayers and condolences. His Holiness recalled his several meetings with Mr. Mazowiecki and expressed his admiration for his leadership. He also remembered him as a friend and steady supporter of the Tibetan people.