LAHORE:The South Asian Games will prove to be a milestone in the development of sports culture across the nation and help a lot in building positive image of country at the global level. Joint Secretary Inter Provincial Coordination (IPC) Amjad Gill stated this while presiding over an important meeting alongside DG Youth Affairs and Sports Punjab Pervez Iqbal at the National Hockey Stadium on Thursday.
The preparations and venues of the South Asian Games were reviewed in detail during the meeting. 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, M Jahangir of Pakistan Karate Federation and Deputy Director Zahoor Ahmed attended the meeting in person. Addressing the meeting, IPC Joint Secretary emphasised a collaborative approach, stating that consultations are ongoing with various sports federations and associations. This inclusive process ensures that venues are chosen based on suitability for each discipline and that the games encompass a diverse range of sporting activities. Highlighting the potential impact of the games, Gill remarked, "The South Asian Games will prove to be a milestone in the development of sports culture across the country."
DG Sports Punjab reassured the committee that venues are undergoing upgrades to meet the highest international standards. He pointed to the Sports Board Punjab's existing infrastructure, boasting "world-class sports complexes, venues and other facilities." Iqbal further emphasised the board's proven track record, stating, "We have also organised several international sports events at our state-of-the-art facilities in the past."
Expressing optimism about Punjab's readiness, he declared, "Our all sports venues are ready to host this grand event." This sentiment was echoed by the commitment to provide 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 execution of this meeting signifies Pakistan's proactive approach towards hosting a memorable South Asian Games. With collaborative venue selection, upgraded facilities, and a focus on athlete experience, the stage is being set for a truly spectacular regional sporting event,” confided an official.