ISLAMABAD Federal Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination, Dr Fehmida Mirza, stated that sports diplomacy can do wonders in promoting cordial relations of Pakistan with all other countries.
The federal minister held a meeting with Air Vice Marshall Abdul Moeed Khan and discussed the ways of cooperation for promoting sports in the country.
She recalled her visit to Nepal in South Asian Games where she witnessed the importance of sports diplomacy and appreciated the welcoming attitude of the Nepalese towards Pakistani athletes. Reiterating her stance, she expressed that the Nepali spectators of South Asian Games not only gave a warm welcome to Pakistani team but also cheered the players at each win, which in turn took their confidence to another level.
She regretted the situation of sports in Pakistan and stated that Islamabad has a state-of-the-art facility, Pakistan Sports Complex, that has not been utilised to its potential. She lamented that a number of MOU’s were signed previously with many countries, but no work was done, and hence no tangible results could be achieved.
Moreover, she cited the example of Azerbaijan and how impressive their sports rehabilitation facilities were that she saw during her visit to the region. She also expressed her desire to replicate their model in Pakistan as well for which the ministry and services should work in tandem.
Dr Mirza also highlighted that the ministry has a plan to start developing sports facilities in the less developed areas of all the provinces including Gilgit Baltistan. “This is to channelise the huge youth bulge. These sports facilities would enable their energies to be utilised in rewarding activities like sports and hence would prevent them from getting involved in other illicit activities,” she emphasised.
Another area that came under discussion pertains to the sports ground which belongs to Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) located in the Skardu. The minister discussed her ambitions to convert it into a sports facility for the local population and enable them to take part in international sports events.
The minister underscored that sports are not only a source of joy and fun but also play a major role in maintaining physical fitness and general wellbeing of an individual. She reinforced that provincial, federal government and the services must work in synergy and collaborate with each other to get most out of it.
Air Vice Marshall assured the minister of full support and cooperation, especially regarding winter sports and squash. Moreover, he congratulated the Minister over the victory of the kabaddi team against rival India that has made the whole nation proud.
He apprised the minister regarding the installation of skiing simulators in Karachi, upon which Dr Mirza requested that such simulators should be installed at Skardu and other sports facilities as well.
Air Vice Marshall also requested the minister that during her visit to Turkey, she should convince the authorities sign to send their players to Pakistan on a regular basis as this will help in boosting their self-confidence and would prepare them for international events. He also invited the minister to attend the Khunjerab Marathon event which is to take place in August which she agreed.
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