Inter-Asian Relations Conference, New Delhi

Papers and pamphlets from the Conference, Maps and charts prepared for the Conference, and papers submitted by delegates to the Conference

The series has been arranged into the following three sub-series: Q/26/1 Papers relating to the Conference; Q/26/2 Maps and charts prepared for the Conference; Q/26/3 Papers submitted by delegates at the Conference

More papers in the India Office Records relating to the 1947 Inter-Asian Relations Conference can be found in the Political (External) Collections at IOR/L/PS/12/4636 and IOR/L/PS/12/4637, in the Information Department Records at IOR/L/I/1/152, in the Public and Judicial Annual Files at IOR/L/PJ/7/12308, and in the Secret Despatches from the Standing Committee on UK Representation in India at IOR/Q/25/2/11

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The first Inter-Asian Relations Conference, organised by the Indian Council of World Affairs, was held at New Delhi from 23 March to 02 April 1947. The delegates to the conference represented 31 countries including 21 Asian countries and 7 Soviet Republics in Asia Minor, as well as observers from 3 non-Asian countries, namely Australia, the UK and the US. The purpose of the Conference was to review the position of Asia in the aftermath of the Second World War, to exchange ideas on the problems which were common to Asia, and to promote closer contacts and closer understanding between the countries of Asia. Opening addresses of welcome were given by Jawaharlal Nehru, in his role as President of the Indian Council of World Affairs, and Mrs Sarojini Naidu, President of the Conference, in which the importance of Asia in world affairs was stressed. Following the plenary sessions the Conference broke up into five discussion groups, one for each of the principal subjects: national movements for freedom; migration and racial problems; economic development and social services; cultural problems; and the status of women and women's movements. At the conclusion of the Conference it was decided to create a Provisional Council, with Nehru as President, and on which all Asian countries would be represented, and it was announced that another conference would be held in 1949 in China. It was also decided that an Asian Relations Organisation would be founded to study the history and culture of Asia. The final plenary session took place in the Old Fort, where, before an audience of around 25,000 people, Mahatma Gandhi spoke of the spiritual message which Asia had to carry to the West.