“It is highly unfortunate that Pakistan has politicized a prestigious international event by making such statements
and withdrawing its participation,” MEA spokesman Arindam Bagchi said, lashing out at Islamabad.
In reference to Pakistan’s decision on withdrawing their players from the mega event, Mr Bagchi said –
“It is surprising that Pakistan has suddenly taken this decision, not to participate in FIDE Chess Olympiad,
particularly after the team has already reached India. In so far as their argument being, given that the Union
Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh of course have, have been, are, and will remain an integral part of India”.
“I was told that the team is actually here, but again, if they have withdrawn, so maybe the team will go back. But
as I said, I think it’s a politicization of this activity,” he said.
The Chess Olympiad 2022 is being held at the Four Points by Sheraton Mahabalipuram Resort and Convention
Centre in Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu.
The Chess Olympiad was initially scheduled to be held in Russia and was moved to Chennai after Russia’s
invasion of Ukraine.
The edition will witness a record 188 teams in the Open section and 162 in the women’s category.
The 44th Chess Olympiad will be held till August 10.
The International Chess Federation (FIDE) had invited Pakistan to participate in the 44th Chess Olympiad.
However, Pakistan has chosen to withdraw its contingent already training for this event.
They objected that the torch relay passed through Srinagar on June 21.
India monitors matters related to security around Sri Lanka:
Even as there are reports of a proposed visit by a Chinese vessel to Sri Lanka’s Hambanthota port next month,
MEA spokesman said India carefully ‘monitors’ any development having an impact on its security.
The southern deep-sea port of Hambantota is considered strategically important for its location.
“We are aware of reports of a proposed visit by this vessel to Hambantota in August,” Mr Bagchi said.
“The government carefully monitors any development having a bearing on India’s security and economic
interests and takes all necessary measures to safeguard them,” he said.
To a question on the execution of four people in Myanmar, the MEA spokesman said, “We have noted these
developments in Myanmar with deep concern. As a neighbouring country of Myanmar, we have always highlighted
the need for a peaceful resolution to the issue. The rule of law and democratic process must be upheld”.
He further said, “As a friend of the people of Myanmar we will continue to support Myanmar’s return to
democracy and stability”.
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