New Delhi: Pakistan has decided not to participate in the upcoming Asian Senior Fencing Championships scheduled to be held in New Delhi from June 19, despite receiving a formal invitation from the organisers, according to officials from the Fencing Association of India (FAI).
The continental tournament, which India is hosting for the first time, will take place at Bharat Mandapam and is expected to feature athletes from more than 30 countries across Asia and Oceania. Nearly 100 delegates and technical officials are also expected to attend the event.
FAI Secretary General Rajeev Mehta confirmed that invitations had been extended to both Pakistan and Afghanistan, but neither country submitted entries before the deadline.
“We invited Pakistan and Afghanistan to participate in the championships, but both countries chose not to send their fencers. The entry deadline has already passed, and we are now processing visas for athletes and officials from participating nations,” Mehta told PTI.
Pakistan’s decision comes despite India’s recent clarification that while bilateral sporting ties with the neighbouring country remain suspended, Pakistani athletes would still be allowed to compete in multilateral international events hosted in India.
The championship will also mark a significant milestone for Indian fencing, as the General Assembly of the Fencing Confederation of Asia (FCA) is set to be held in the country for the first time. The meeting will bring together senior officials from across the continent.
Interim President of the International Fencing Federation (FIE), Abdelmoneim El Husseiny, is also expected to attend the FCA General Assembly.
Visa Challenges For Some Participating Nations
While preparations for the event are progressing smoothly, organisers acknowledged that a few countries are facing visa-related hurdles.
According to Mehta, delegates and athletes from Hong Kong are encountering difficulties in securing timely visa appointments due to limited availability at visa application centres.
The Australian contingent has also faced challenges after some visa applications were reportedly rejected. Organisers said they are working with relevant authorities to resolve the issues and ensure smooth participation.
“Preparations for the championship are moving ahead as planned. We are coordinating with national and international stakeholders to deliver a world-class experience for athletes and officials,” Mehta said.
Boost For Fencing In India
The FAI believes hosting the Asian Senior Fencing Championships will provide a major boost to the sport’s growth in India. Officials expect the event to inspire young fencers, increase public interest in the discipline, and strengthen India’s reputation as a destination for international sporting events.
The association also expressed gratitude to government agencies, sports authorities and event partners for their support in organising what is expected to be a landmark competition for Indian fencing.