Pakistan is preparing to host the South Asian Games again after a gap of 23 years.
The regional sporting event is scheduled to take place in Islamabad in April 2027.
India has also agreed to participate in the Games and send its athletes to Pakistan.
The development follows a high-level meeting of the South Asian Olympic Association. Representatives discussed preparations and participation by member countries.
Indian representatives also attended the meeting and gave a positive response regarding participation in the upcoming event.
India Agrees to Send Athletes to Pakistan
Pakistan Olympic Association Secretary General Khalid Mahmood confirmed the development.
According to Mahmood, India expressed its willingness to participate during the South Asian Olympic Association meeting. Indian authorities have formally agreed to send athletes to Pakistan for the Games in April 2027.
The participation would bring athletes from the two neighboring countries together at a major regional sporting event.
Other South Asian countries are also expected to participate in different competitions during the Games.
Islamabad to Host Competitions in 15 Sports
Islamabad will serve as the host city for the South Asian Games.
Competitions in 15 sports are planned for the regional event.
Squash, tennis and martial arts are among the disciplines included in the Games. Several other sporting competitions will also take place.
Preparations are expected to include upgrades and arrangements at different sporting venues in the federal capital.
Authorities have been instructed to ensure that the required facilities are completed before the Games begin.
Authorities Told to Complete Venues on Time
Federal and provincial authorities have been directed to complete preparations within the required timeframe.
The instructions cover sporting venues and other arrangements needed to host international athletes. Authorities will also focus on security measures for participants and officials.
Accommodation and transportation arrangements will be another major part of the preparations.
Other facilities required by athletes and participating delegations will also be arranged ahead of the event.
Pakistan to Host Games After More Than Two Decades
Pakistan last hosted the South Asian Games in Islamabad in 2004.
The April 2027 event will therefore mark the country’s return as host after 23 years. The confirmation of India as a participating country is also an important development for the regional competition.
Pakistan will now continue preparations for hosting athletes and officials from across South Asia.
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The Games are expected to bring multiple regional teams to Islamabad for competitions across 15 sporting disciplines.
