Kishore Jena has left for Budapest after the external affairs ministry intervened to clear a visa issue he was facing.
The Union Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has swiftly tackled the visa impediments faced by javelin thrower Kishore Jena, ensuring his participation in the upcoming World Athletics Championships 2023 in Budapest, Hungary.
Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra took to social media to shed light on Jena’s visa challenges and urged the MEA to intervene, recognizing the significance of this event in Jena’s athletic journey.
In response to Chopra’s plea, the MEA promptly took action, leading to the Hungarian Embassy promptly granting Jena’s visa. This intervention ensured Jena’s journey to Hungary for the sporting spectacle.
Jena’s Expresses Gratitude
Before embarking on his journey, Jena expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the External Affairs Ministry, and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) in a heartfelt video message, acknowledging their role in swiftly resolving the issue.
Indian Javelin thrower Kishore Jena expresses gratitude to @MEAIndia for quick and speedy intervention for clearing his visa for Budapest, Hungary. He is now set to take part in the #WorldAthleticsChampionships which kicks off tomorrow. He will leave for Budapest on Sunday. pic.twitter.com/DXXBs05qVf
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) August 18, 2023
This incident underscores the MEA’s consistent support for Indian athletes participating in international competitions.
Notably, during various events like the Berlin World Games 2023, 2023 Croatia United World Wrestling tournament, 2022 Commonwealth Powerlifting and Bench Press Championships in New Zealand, and the 2022 International Chess Tournament, the ministry has extended assistance to facilitate athletes’ participation abroad.
MEA’s Sports Diplomacy
This proactive approach by the MEA exemplifies the confluence of diplomacy and sports, reflecting the Indian government’s commitment to empowering athletes on the global stage.
As Jena heads to the World Athletics Championships, his journey epitomizes the seamless coordination between sports and diplomacy, ensuring that hurdles like visa issues do not hinder the pursuit of excellence on the international sporting arena.
