Sept 4 (Reuters) - Russian and Belarusian athletes will be allowed to compete as neutrals in World Aquatics events, the sport's governing body said on Monday. Competitors from both countries were banned from international tournaments following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which Moscow describes as a "special military operation". "The World Aquatics Bureau recognise the dedication, commitment, and talent of athletes, regardless of their nationality," World Aquatics President Husain Al Musallam said in a statement. Criteria for the allowance of Russian and Belarusian competitors were established by a specific task force set up by the sports body in April, in line with the recommendations of the International Olympic Committee. Reporting by Angelica Medina in Mexico CityOur Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

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Persons: Husain Al Musallam, Angelica Medina Organizations: Integrity Unit, Aquatics, International Olympic Committee, Thomson Locations: Belarusian, Ukraine, Moscow, Belarus, Mexico City