On 6 & 7 September 2011, the Vivekanada International Foundation (VIF) organised a conference on ‘Tibet in the Aftermath of Devolution of Political Authority’. The conference was designed to address topics like Tibetan politics and new leadership, Chinese and Indian perceptions of Tibet problem, Chinese policy in Tibet and strategic implications for India and other related themes. The VIF put together an array of eminent strategic experts, including Tibetan stakeholders for the conference who deliberated upon a range of complex issues in a very frank and candid atmosphere.

The Ambassador of United Kingdom to Nepal HE John Anthony Tucknott visited Vivekananda International Foundation on June 28, 2011 for an informal interaction on Nepal’s internal dynamics. The Ambassador interacted with a select panel of strategic and foreign policy experts which included, among others, Mr. Ajit Doval Director VIF, Ambassador Mr. Rajiv Sikri, Ambassador TCA Rangachari, Lt. Gen. (Retd.) RK Sawhney, Mr. CD Sahay, Brig (Retd.) Vinod Anand, Brig (Retd.) Arun Sahgal, and Dr. Sangeeta Thapliyal.

Vivekananda International Foundation hosted Prime Minister-elect of Tibetian Government in Exile, Dr. Lobsang Sangay for an informal interaction on 'Tibet: Assessment of Recent Developments' on June 22. This was his first formal/informal interaction after having been elected. The interaction began with Mr. Ajit Doval, Director VIF complimenting Dr. Lobsang Sangay for his election to the highest office and presenting an overview of Tibet which has strategic, political, cultural, and environmental significance not only for India but also for the whole world.

The Indian view on the situation in Afghanistan and the future of the country was examined. In addition to the Indian perspective, the views of other countries, like Pakistan, Iran, Russia and Central Asian countries on the current situation in Afghanistan were highlighted. The influence of Pakistan in the stability of Afghanistan was also analysed in great detail. The internal developments in Pakistan as well as its interference in the pursuit of its policy of strategic depth in Afghanistan were deliberated upon.