India on Wednesday reaffirmed its suspension of bilateral sporting ties with Pakistan, ruling out any direct contests between the two nations, while allowing participation in multilateral international events under global sporting frameworks.
In a memorandum, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports said the country’s sporting engagement with Pakistan remains aligned with its broader diplomatic policy. “India's approach to sports events involving Pakistan reflects its overall policy in dealing with that country,” the communication stated.
The government made clear that Indian teams will not travel to Pakistan for bilateral competitions, nor will Pakistani teams be permitted to play in India in such formats. The directive continues the long-standing freeze on bilateral engagements, particularly in cricket.
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However, the ministry distinguished between bilateral fixtures and international tournaments governed by global bodies. It said Indian athletes and teams would continue to compete in events featuring Pakistani participants, and Pakistan would be allowed to take part in multilateral competitions hosted in India.
The move ensures compliance with international sporting norms while safeguarding the interests of Indian athletes competing on global stages.
The ministry also underlined India’s ambition to become a preferred destination for major sporting events. It announced measures to simplify visa procedures for sportspersons, officials and technical personnel, including priority multi-entry visas for up to five years for office-bearers of international governing bodies.
The clarification comes amid continuing sensitivities in India-Pakistan ties, while balancing diplomatic considerations with commitments to global sport.
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