Special security arrangements have been put in place for the high-profile India-Pakistan Twenty20 cricket match scheduled to be held in Colombo on Feb. 15, Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said Tuesday.

Speaking at the weekly Cabinet decision media briefing, Minister said authorities had prepared a comprehensive security and traffic management plan in anticipation of a large turnout for the match.

He said a previous decision by the Pakistani government not to take part in the fixture was later revised following diplomatic engagement, a move the government welcomed.

Jayatissa said cricket could serve as a platform to promote friendship and cooperation among countries in the region, adding that the government remained ready to play a facilitative role whenever such opportunities arise.

“There was a situation where this India-Pakistan match was not going to be held due to various regional issues,” he said. “Over the past few days, the government carried out several interventions, and as a result, we now have the opportunity to stage this match.”

He said several parties, including the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the national cricket authorities, were involved in the discussions. He also confirmed that the President had held a telephone conversation with the Prime Minister of Pakistan on the matter, following which official communication was received from the Pakistani government.

Minister said the government had taken full responsibility for ensuring security for all participating teams and officials, assuring that maximum protection would be provided.

Police have also implemented a special traffic plan in and around Colombo in view of the expected influx of spectators, he said. (NewsWire) 

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