New Delhi: The Ministry of Sports has maintained its policy on sports relations with Pakistan where there is a complete ban on bilateral relations. Exemption will continue for multi-country events such as ICC events, Olympics, Asian Games and others.“As far as bilateral sports events in each other’s country are concerned, Indian teams will not participate in events held in Pakistan. Nor will we allow Pakistani teams to play in India,” an office memorandum issued by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports on May 5 said.
“In relation to international and multilateral competitions, in India or abroad, we are guided by the conduct of international sports bodies and the interests of our own athletes.to emerge as a credible venue for hosting international sporting events,” he continued.No change has been made in the policy issued on August 21 last year.With Ahmedabad aiming to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030 and host the Asian Games and Olympics, the document also spells out the intention to simplify the visa process for those concerned.“To position India as a preferred destination for hosting international sports events, the visa process for athletes, team officials, technical staff and officials of international sports governing bodies will be simplified.”“In respect of officials of international sports governing bodies, a multi-entry visa will be granted on a priority basis for the duration of their official tenure, subject to a maximum period of five years. This will facilitate their smooth movement within and within the country, in accordance with international norms,” the memorandum said.The policy came after the uproar over India’s participation in the men’s Asia Cup in the UAE last year, which also included Pakistan, within a few months of it. First terrorist attack In which 26 people were killed.
