CGF, IOA & Ministry issue a joint statement on CWG

Notwithstanding the deadlock over non-inclusion of shooting in 2022 CWG in Birmingham and a resultant withdrawal proposal by the Indian Olympic Association, the CGF, Sports Ministry and IOA have issued a joint statement, which perhaps serves little purpose on the job in hand but a welcome gesture moving forward.

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Following is the joint statement

"Discussions between the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sport, the Government of India, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) have been very positive. We are confident that our important visits to Delhi and Punjab will significantly strengthen our relationship as we move forward."

"The CGF and the IOA recognise the significant positive sporting legacies created from the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games in terms of both sport participation and high performance across the country. The CGF commends the leadership of the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sport Kiren Rijiju for championing the open and inclusive free use of Delhi 2010 venues for sport."

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"The CGF appreciates the concerns expressed by India about the non-inclusion of shooting as a competitive event at Birmingham 2022 and we are committed to working together for finding a solution to this. We have also agreed to work closely to help strengthen India’s voice and presence across the Commonwealth Sport Movement."

"Following our discussions, the CGF are increasingly hopeful that the athletes of India will compete at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. We acknowledge and respect that this decision will ultimately be taken by the sports community of India but have been delighted with the opportunity to discuss the refreshed vision of the Commonwealth Sports Movement and India’s important role in achieving it."

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"An important part of the CGF visit has been to witness and celebrate the continuing positive legacies of the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games. The CGF are also convening with athletes and officials across Indian sport to discuss the future of Commonwealth Sport."

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