India clarifies stance on 2027 SAF Games in Pakistan

South Asian Games SAF Games 2027 India-Pakistan relations sports policy multilateral championships

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has addressed questions regarding whether Indian athletes will participate in the 2027 South Asian Federation (SAF) Games, which are scheduled to be hosted in Pakistan. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that any decision on participation is guided by the existing policy of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

According to the 'Indian Policy Towards International Sporting Events' document, India’s participation in international or multilateral events is guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interests of Indian sportspersons. The policy specifies that Indian teams and individual players will participate in international events that include teams or players from Pakistan, and conversely, Pakistani players and teams will be able to participate in multilateral events hosted by India.

The 2027 SAF Games are set to take place from April 3 to 11 across Islamabad, Lahore, and Peshawar, following approval of the dates and venues by the South Asia Olympic Council.

Entities

Ministry of External Affairs · Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports · Pakistan · Randhir Jaiswal · South Asia Olympic Council

Sources

Will India travel to Pakistan for 2027 South Asian Games? [thebridge.in]

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India’s participation in int’l tournament guided by sports ministry policy: MEA on SAF 2027 in Pak [theshillongtimes.com]

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Will India send its athletes to Pakistan for 2027 SAF Games? Centre responds [www.dnaindia.com]

3 days ago