Bhubaneswar :
India Reaffirms Stance On Pakistan
India’s Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports has clarified its policy regarding sporting ties with Pakistan, ruling out any possibility of bilateral cricket series while giving a green signal for participation in multilateral tournaments. This decision confirms that India will compete in the Asia Cup 2025 but continue to avoid bilateral cricketing engagements with its neighbor.
Asia Cup Participation Cleared
The Asia Cup 2025, scheduled from September 9 to 28 in the United Arab Emirates, had faced uncertainty over India’s participation due to political sensitivities. The latest directive ensures that India will field its team for the continental championship, where an India–Pakistan clash is expected to be one of the marquee fixtures.
Bilateral Freeze Continues
Officials emphasized that the distinction between bilateral and multilateral events remains central to India’s sports policy. While India will not travel to Pakistan for cricket series—or host them at home—there is no objection to encounters in neutral venues as part of multinational tournaments such as the Asia Cup or ICC World Cup events.
Visa Protocols Simplified For Global Events
The ministry also announced that visa processes for athletes, officials, and international sporting delegates would be streamlined, signaling India’s intent to remain an accessible and active player in global sporting activities while upholding its bilateral stance on Pakistan.
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