The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday said India's participation in the 2027 South Asian Federation (SAF) Games in Pakistan would be guided by the policy laid down by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, amid reports that New Delhi has given in-principle consent to send its contingent to the event.
Responding to questions at a media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the government's position on sporting engagements was clear and referred to the Sports Ministry's policy governing India's participation in international competitions. Under the approach, India's participation in multilateral sporting events is treated separately from bilateral sporting engagements with Pakistan. Reports on Tuesday said India had agreed in principle to participate in the Games, in line with the position that multilateral competitions should be governed by international sporting rules and norms despite strained bilateral ties.
Multilateral events treated separately
India's position assumes significance as sporting exchanges with Pakistan have frequently been affected by tensions between the two countries. The government's policy, however, draws a distinction between bilateral competitions and multilateral tournaments in which several countries participate. The 2027 SAF Games fall in the latter category, with athletes from across South Asia expected to compete.
Pakistan is scheduled to host the 14th edition of the South Asian Games in 2027. India has traditionally been the dominant force at the regional multi-sport competition and topped the medal table at the previous edition, held in Nepal in 2019. Pakistan previously hosted the Games in 1989 and 2004.