No Bilateral Sports With Pakistan, But Government Gives Green Light for Asia Cup
Indian government on Thursday reiterated its long-standing policy of not engaging in any bilateral sporting events with Pakistan, but confirmed that the Indian cricket team will be allowed to compete in the upcoming multi-nation Asia Cup. The decision clears the way for the highly anticipated India-Pakistan clashes scheduled for September 14 and possibly September 21 in Dubai, with the final to be held on September 29.
A source in the Sports Ministry confirmed that the government’s policy remains consistent: Indian teams will not travel to Pakistan, nor will they host Pakistani teams for any bilateral series. This position is firmly rooted in the broader diplomatic and security considerations that have defined the relationship between the two nations.
However, this strict restriction does not apply to multilateral tournaments like the Asia Cup or ICC events. These competitions, held at neutral or third-party venues, are governed by international sporting bodies, allowing both countries to participate without engaging in direct bilateral arrangements. This distinction maintains a politically neutral environment for the contests.
India’s new policy towards international sporting events further clarifies this stance. “India’s approach to sports events involving Pakistan reflects its overall policy in dealing with that country,” the policy states. While bilateral events remain off the table, for international tournaments, “India is guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interests of its own sportspersons.”
The policy also underscores India’s ambition to become a major global hub for international sports. It commits to simplifying the visa process for sportspersons, officials, and technical personnel, including those from Pakistan, for multilateral events hosted in India.
To facilitate this, office-bearers of international sports governing bodies will be granted multi-entry visas on a priority basis. This move is designed to position India as a “credible and preferred destination for hosting international sporting events,” ensuring that due protocol and courtesies are extended according to international norms
