MADISON, Wis. -- The Flag of Tibet will fly over the City-County Building in Madison to honor the visit of the Dalai Lama.

The Dalai Lama, the exiled leader of Tibetans, will be in Madison from for a six-day visit that will conclude on July 24.

On Thursday, the City/County Liaison Committee, a panel of officials representing both Madison and Dane County, voted to fly the flag in honor of the Dalai Lama's visit, his seventh to the area.

"This is an important time in the history of Tibet because the world spotlight will shine on Tibet's oppressor, China, when the 2008 Summer Olympics are held in August," said Dave Felice, the supervisor of the Dane County Board. "Flying the Flag of Tibet underscores our commitment to freedom and expresses our unity with the Tibetan people in our community and abroad."

The Dalai Lama is the political and spiritual leader of Tibetans throughout the world and he lives in exile in India where he presides over the Central Tibetan Administration.

During his trip the area, the Dalai Lama will deliver his teachings at the Alliant Energy Center. Some 6,000 people from around the world are expected to attend.