Pakistan has officially announced its intention to participate in the upcoming cricket World Cup in India, a move that is being widely perceived as a chance for countless fans to witness another intense competition between India and Pakistan.
The much-anticipated announcement was made by Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry on Sunday through an official statement. This comes at a time of escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nations, which have been embroiled in a series of territorial and maritime disputes for several decades.
Stressing the principle that sports and politics should remain separate, Pakistan’s statement highlighted its decision to send its cricket team to India for the upcoming ICC (International Cricket Council) Cricket World Cup in 2023.
Pakistan’s stance is that the existing state of bilateral relations with India should not obstruct the fulfillment of its international obligations in the realm of sports.
However, there have been concerns raised regarding the security of Pakistan’s cricket squad during the mega event scheduled for October and November. Pakistan has expressed these worries to both the International Cricket Council and Indian authorities, emphasizing the need for comprehensive safety measures to be put in place.
India, on the other hand, has declined to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, set to commence on August 31. Pakistan views its decision to participate in the World Cup as a constructive and responsible move in contrast to India’s unyielding position, as India had declined to send its cricket team to Pakistan for the Asia Cup.
While hockey remains the national sport for both India and Pakistan, cricket has often been employed as a diplomatic tool by politicians to foster better relations between the two nations.
