Pakistan grants NOC to Indian volleyball team for Central Asian Championship
Volleyball Championship scheduled from 22 to 29 July in Islamabad: PVF chairman views move as positive step for sporting engagement
In a significant step towards sports diplomacy, the Pakistani government has issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the Indian volleyball team to participate in the upcoming Central Asian Volleyball Championship in Islamabad.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, India is scheduled to take part in the championship, which will be held from 22 to 29 July in Islamabad under the banner of the Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVA).
Chairman of the Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF), Chaudhry Yaqoob, said Indian authorities had formally been informed of the decision to grant the NOC.
He expressed optimism that the Indian team would travel to Pakistan for the regional competition.
Yaqoob said all arrangements for the championship had been finalised and organisers were fully prepared to host the participating teams.
The tournament is expected to feature teams from Pakistan, India, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and Kyrgyzstan, along with other regional sides.
Officials believe the participation of the Indian team would enhance the profile of the championship and serve as a positive example of sporting engagement between countries in the region.
Reporter: Rozina Ali