‘South Asian Games will build positive image of country’

LAHORE: The South Asian Games will prove to be a milestone in the development of sports culture across the country and will go a long way in building a positive image of the country at the global level. Joint Secretary Inter Provincial Coordination (IPC) Amjad Gill stated this while chairing an important meeting with DG Youth Affairs and Sports Punjab Pervez Iqbal at the National Hockey Stadium on Thursday.

During the meeting, the preparations and venues of the South Asian Games were discussed in detail. DG Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) participated in the meeting through video link while Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) Secretary Khalid Mahmood, Additional Secretary Sports Farhan Farooq, Director Admin M Kaleem, Director Sports Yasmeen Akhtar, Pakistan M Jahangir Karate Federation and Deputy Director Zahoor Ahmed personally attended the meeting. Speaking at the meeting, the IPC Joint Secretary emphasized a collaborative approach, stating that consultations are underway with various sports federations and associations. This inclusive process ensures that venues are chosen based on suitability for each discipline and that the games cover a wide range of sporting activities. Highlighting the potential impact of the games, Gill noted: “The South Asian Games will prove to be a milestone in the development of sports culture across the country.”

DG Sports Punjab assured the committee that venues are being upgraded to meet the highest international standards. He pointed out the existing infrastructure of the Sports Board Punjab, which has ‘world-class sports complexes, venues and other facilities’. Iqbal further highlighted the proven track record of the board and said, “We have also hosted several international sporting events in the past in our state-of-the-art facilities.”

Expressing optimism over Punjab’s readiness, he stated, “Our sports venues are ready to host this grand event.” This sentiment was reflected by the commitment to providing exceptional athlete and official experiences. “Sports Board Punjab will make the best arrangements for the South Asian Games and provide top class facilities to all participating athletes and officials,” he concluded.

“The successful conduct of this meeting reflects Pakistan’s proactive approach to hosting a memorable South Asian Games. “With a joint selection of venues, enhanced facilities and a focus on athlete experience, the stage is being set for a truly spectacular regional sporting event,” confided an official.