India vs Pakistan Asia Cup Clash: Government Clarifies Stand on Bilateral Ties
India rules out bilateral sporting events with Pakistan but confirms Team India’s participation in the Asia Cup 2025, where the two sides will clash on September 14 in the UAE.
India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025: Government bars bilaterals but clears Team India to play in the multi-nation tournament in the UAE.
India will not participate in any bilateral athletic events with Pakistan, either domestically, abroad, or at neutral locations, the Sports Ministry has stated unequivocally. However, because the Asia Cup 2025 is a multi-nation competition, the Indian cricket team will play. The match between India and Pakistan is set for September 14 in the United Arab Emirates.
Only multilateral participation, no bilateral ties
The recently announced policy states that Pakistani teams will not be allowed to play in India, and Indian athletes will not be allowed to travel to Pakistan for bilateral events. Even neutral-venue bilaterals are out of the question, a ministry official stressed.
Even if they are scheduled in a third country, India and Pakistan are not allowed to play bilateral matches. However, unless Pakistan is the host country, our players won't be stopped in multilateral events," the official stated.
Confirmed Participation in the 2025 Asia Cup
The government affirmed that Team India will participate in the forthcoming Asia Cup, which starts in the United Arab Emirates on September 9, despite mounting social media controversy. In accordance with international sporting commitments, the ministry declared that it would not prevent Indian athletes from competing in tournaments involving several countries.
Security and Diplomacy-Related Policies
The ministry emphasised that, particularly in light of recent tensions, such as the Pahalgam terror attack, India's sports policy reflects its diplomatic approach to Pakistan. India will continue to abide by the rules set forth by international sporting bodies as long as bilateral exchanges are suspended.
Interestingly, visas were granted to Pakistani hockey players for the upcoming Asia Cup in Bihar, underscoring India’s commitment to inclusivity in multilateral competitions while maintaining a strict stand on bilateral engagements.
Focus on Global Sporting Image
As India eyes bids for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2036 Olympics, the government stressed that it will adhere to the Olympic Charter. Visa procedures for international athletes, officials, and sporting body representatives will be simplified to present India as a global sports hub.
