A conference on Tibetan studies planned to take place in Kathmandu during late August has been called off following a request from Nepalese government officials, according to organizers who announced the cancellation.
The International Association for Tibetan Studies had scheduled the seminar to run from August 23-26 and was to be hosted by the Himalaya Centre for Asian Studies at Kathmandu University, with participants expected from numerous countries. Prof. Sagar Raj Sharma of the Center stated that officials requested the conference not proceed, though no specific reasons were provided for the decision.
Nepal has historically maintained close diplomatic relations with China and has implemented policies restricting activities perceived as supporting Tibetan independence or political causes. The country has stated its position that it will not permit protests, rallies, or activities directed against nations it considers friendly partners.
Tibetan refugee communities maintain a presence in Nepal, and the region has been a transit point for individuals seeking to reach the Dalai Lama, whom the Tibetan exile community regards as their spiritual leader and who resides in India. Commemorations of the Dalai Lama’s birthday do occur annually in Nepal but are confined to monastery and school settings with police oversight. Past demonstrations by refugee groups in Nepal have resulted in police intervention.
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