NEW DELHI: The government on Thursday sounded a word of caution about the resumption of cricket ties with Pakistan saying that one of the main 26/11 accused, David Coleman Headley, had entered India on the pretext of watching matches. Minister of state for external affairs E Ahmed said the issue of visas to Pakistani nationals coming to India to watch cricket matches at various venues will be in accordance with "extant rules and regulations".
"India continues to make efforts to build peaceful and stable relations with Pakistan," said Ahmed, a day after India hanged Ajmal Kasab, one of the perpetrators of Mumbai attacks. "This includes promotion of sporting ties. However, terrorism against India emanating from Pakistan and territory under its control remains a core concern for us," he added.
Government has given clearance to BCCI for Pakistan cricket team's tour to India to participate in three One Day Internationals (ODIs) and two T20 matches from December 25 to January 6. The matches will be played in Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata.
"As per available information, two alleged conspirators of Mumbai terror attack, as revealed by David Coleman Headley, visited New Delhi in 2005 on the pretext of watching India-Pakistan cricket match," said Ahmed.
According to the minister, the government has conveyed to the Pakistan leadership, including at the highest levels that Islamabad must abide by its commitment that it will not allow its territory and territory under its control to be used for aiding and abetting of terrorist activities against India and for providing sanctuaries to such terrorist groups. "It has also been conveyed to Pakistan that an expeditious and successful conclusion of the investigation and trial relating to those involved in the Mumbai attacks would be a major confidence building measure and would help bridge the trust deficit," he added.
David Headley shadow over resumption of cricketing ties with Pakistan
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David Headley shadow over resumption of cricketing ties with Pakistan
