Sri Lanka always willing to host Indo-Pak sporting events, says Minister
Sri Lanka's Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage has expressed the nation's willingness to host cricket matches between India and Pakistan. The country is actively promoting itself as a neutral sporting venue to boost tourism and economic recovery.
Why it matters
Hosting high-profile India-Pakistan matches is a significant diplomatic and economic opportunity for Sri Lanka, given the strained bilateral relations between the two neighbors.
Sri Lanka is “always willing” to host sporting events featuring India and Pakistan, Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage said, pointing to the island’s proximity and Colombo’s strong ties with New Delhi and Islamabad as advantages. “Not just cricket, we are willing to extend our fullest cooperation and support to host any game between India and Pakistan if they make a request. Both countries are our close friends and partners,” he said.
Speaking to The Hindu at his office in Colombo, Mr. Gamage further said that Sri Lanka is looking forward to welcoming cricket fans from India to watch the Test series next month. India is scheduled to tour Sri Lanka in August for a Test series, with matches scheduled at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) in Colombo and the Galle International Stadium in the southern coastal district.
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