Malaysia has been stripped off the hosting of the 2019 World Para Swimming Championships by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). The Muslim-majority country was stripped after it barred Israel from the competition.
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Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah said at a press conference:
“Even if we have already committed to hosting an event, they will not be allowed [into the country].”
He added:
“[Malaysia would] not host any event that has representation from or participation of Israel.”
The decision against Malaysia was made at a meeting of IPC’s governing board in London. A statement from the meeting concerning Malaysia says the country…
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“failed to provide the necessary guarantees that Israeli para swimmers could participate, free from discrimination and safely in the championships.”
The spokesman of the Israeli Foreign Ministry, Emmanuel Nahshon tweeted:
“is a victory of values over hatred and bigotry, a strong statement in favor of freedom and equality. Thank you @Paralympics for your brave decision!!!”
