Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government's commitment to providing equal opportunities in all sports, including football, reported 24NewsHDTV chnanel.
He made these remarks during a meeting with Shaikh Salman Ebrahim Hamad Alkhalifa, President of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and Senior Vice President of FIFA, who called on him in Islamabad on Thursday. The Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to developing football, positioning the country as a regional hub for the sport, and establishing an autonomous, merit-based football federation. He expressed keen interest in enhancing cooperation between Pakistan and the AFC, particularly in promoting football across Pakistan, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, through the provision of coaches and referees, development of stadiums, establishment of national training centers, and creation of talent pathways.
Shehbaz Sharif also conveyed Pakistan’s desire to host AFC matches. He commended AFC’s role under Shaikh Salman Ebrahim Hamad Alkhalifa's leadership in promoting football across Asia.
Shaikh Salman Ebrahim Hamad Alkhalifa thanked the Prime Minister for his warm hospitality and reaffirmed the AFC’s support for the growth of football in Pakistan.