Pakistan Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani said on Thursday that he would personally request the Indian government to send its national cricket team for a tour early next year even as security fears are threatening to derail the trip.

The chances of India coming to Pakistan depend on the clearance of their government, which recently refused to send their junior hockey team across the border for a Test series on security grounds. The BCCI has approached the government for clearance.

The Prime Minister’s assurance came during a meeting with Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Ejaz Butt, who apprised Gilani about the situation regarding India’s tour.

The Prime Minister said the Indian government would be provided assurances regarding security concerns. The Indian team is scheduled to play three Tests and five one-dayers early next year.