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Cabinet approves hosting of 2006 Asiad if IOA wins bid

The Union Cabinet today approved holding the 15th Asian Games in New Delhi in 2006 if the Indian Olympic Association succeeds in its bid.

"The bidding for the Asian Games is on at present, and India is one of the contenders along with Malaysia, Qatar and Hong Kong," Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pramod Mahajan told news persons after the Cabinet meeting.

"The Evaluation Committee of the Olympic Council of Asia will visit India on July 15 and 16 to inspect the available infrastructure," he said, noting that there will be about 48 countries participating in around 38 disciplines.

The Government also decided to issue a letter of guarantee supporting New Delhi's bid to hold the games, Mahajan said.

The letter guarantees free entry to athletes and delegates of all participating countries as also that the Games would be organised in accordance with the fundamental principles, objectives, rules and regulations of OCA.