During his latest tour of the United States on Thursday, the Dalai Lama has come out in favor of gay marriage and condemned homophobia.

Speaking during an interview with American talk show host Larry King, the Buddhist monk said that gay marriage was “okay” and a “ personal matter” he said: “If two people, a couple, really feel that way, it’s more practical, more satisfaction, and both sides fully agree, then okay!”

After talking about human rights violations with regards to LGBT individuals the Dali Lama stated that homophobia, bullying and abuse is wrong and a violation of human rights,”

Though he has referred to Buddhist texts disallowing same sex intimacy in the past, his views on the subject appear to have evolved over the years. This is the Buddhist leader’s clearest affirmation of same-sex marriage to date.

The Tibetan spiritual leader’s interview will air on “Larry King Now” March 10th.