Pakistan, Belgium agree to enhance sports cooperation

Federal Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination Rana Sanaullah and Belgian Ambassador to Pakistan Charles Delogne on Thursday discussed bilateral relations and cooperation in the field of sports, with both sides agreeing to further strengthen people-to-people contacts through sporting exchanges.

During the meeting, the two sides reviewed Pakistan-Belgium relations and explored opportunities for greater collaboration in sports development.

Rana Sanaullah said the government was committed to promoting sports across the country and increasing women's participation in sporting activities.

The minister informed the ambassador that the first National Women's Hockey Championship would be held in Islamabad from July 7 to July 13.

He said the championship would provide talented female players from across Pakistan an opportunity to showcase their abilities and contribute to the revival of women's hockey.

"The Women's Hockey Championship will provide a great opportunity for talented players from across the country to demonstrate their skills," Rana Sanaullah said.

He also expressed the government's desire to further expand sports exchanges and cooperation between Pakistan and Belgium.

The Belgian ambassador welcomed the initiative and said Belgium was keen to support the development of hockey in Pakistan.

According to officials, the ambassador informed the minister that a Belgian hockey team would visit Pakistan and provide training to national hockey players.

Rana Sanaullah invited former and senior Belgian hockey players to visit Pakistan and contribute to the promotion and development of sports, particularly hockey, in the country.

The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing cooperation through sports diplomacy and people-to-people engagement.