Pakistan will not send its fencing team to the Asian Senior Fencing Championships in New Delhi later this month, despite receiving an official invitation from the organizers. India is hosting the continental event for the first time, with athletes from over 30 countries across Asia and Oceania competing at the Bharat Mandapam from June 19.According to Fencing Association of India (FAI) secretary general Rajeev Mehta, invitations were sent to both Pakistan and Afghanistan, but neither country participated before the deadline. The decision came even as India made it clear that Pakistani players would be allowed to participate in multilateral events despite the ongoing ban on bilateral sporting ties. “We sent invitations to Pakistan as well as Afghanistan to participate in the championship but they chose not to send their fencers. The deadline for sending entries has passed and we are now in the process of getting visas for players and officials,” Mehta said, as quoted by news agency PTI.The championship will also feature the General Assembly of the Fencing Confederation of Asia, which will see the body’s top leadership meet in India for the first time. International Fencing Federation Interim President Abdul Moneim Al Hussaini is also expected to participate.While preparations are largely on track, some participating countries have faced visa-related hurdles. Later on Thursday, more than 200 players and official visas were approved, but problems remain for a few delegations.“Preparations for the championship are progressing smoothly, with international and national authorities working closely with international and national authorities to ensure world-class event management and player experience,” Mehta said.He added that Hong Kong authorities were struggling to secure visa appointments, while some Australian visa applications were rejected. Officials are working to resolve the issues before the competition begins.
