Now Reading: Nepal cancels Tibetan studies conference amid China pressure debate
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Nepal cancels Tibetan studies conference amid China pressure debate
Nepal cancels Tibetan studies conference amid China pressure debate
Nepal cancelled a conference on Tibetan studies scheduled for August 23-29 in Kathmandu, at the government's request, according to organisers. The International Association for Tibetan Studies called it an unwarranted interference. Around…
The Story in Brief
Nepal cancelled a conference on Tibetan studies scheduled for August 23-29 in Kathmandu, at the government's request, according to organisers. The International Association for Tibetan Studies called it an unwarranted interference. Around 700 participants, including Chinese scholars, were expected. The Hindu reports that China's ambassador discussed the event with Nepal's foreign secretary in late July, though the foreign ministry says Beijing did not ask for cancellation. Analysts say Nepal felt pressure given China's longstanding sensitivities over Tibet and the Dalai Lama's succession. Nepal has historically avoided letting its territory be used for anti-China activities.
The Indian Opinion
The narrative that China directly ordered Nepal to shut down the conference is too simplistic. The Hindu reports the Chinese ambassador only "discussed" the event; no formal demand was made. The opposite narrative, that Nepal acted entirely on its own, ignores the obvious weight of Beijing's displeasure. Nepal's government faced a hard choice between academic freedom and avoiding a diplomatic row with its powerful northern neighbour. The real test will come if Nepal publishes the meeting notes or the foreign ministry clarifies what instructions were actually given.
Source: thehindu.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
