Dharamsala, Feb 17 (IANS): Central Tibetan Administration President Lobsang Sangay on Saturday congratulated Cyril Ramaphosa on becoming South Africa's new President following Jacob Zuma's resignation.

"I extend my heartiest congratulations to Cyril Ramaphosa as he takes over the office and wish him the very best," Sangay said in a message.

Sangay remembered his Harvard days when he had the opportunity to listen to Ramaphosa where he spoke of South Africa as a nation which has one of the most progressive constitutions that ensures equality and freedom.

Sangay, who recently returned from his maiden visit to South Africa, spoke of this official visit as "inspirational" and expressed that "if South Africa could achieve success, so can Tibet, without violence".

The Tibetan administration is based in the northern hill town of Dharamsala where a community of Tibetans lives in exile with their spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama.