FIFA Senior Vice President met Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme
Islamabad – A significant meeting was held at Prime Minister’s Office attended by Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP), Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, FIFA Senior Vice President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, President Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) Syed Mohsin Gillani and Syeda Amnah Batool, Member National Assembly and Focal Person PMYP. The discussions primarily focused on strategic steps to rejuvenate football in Pakistan and strengthen the country’s standing within the global football community.
The Chairman PMYP warmly welcomed Sheikh Salman’s visit to Pakistan and expressed his sincere gratitude for his visit in response to his personal invitation. He expressed sincere gratitude for his presence at this pivotal moment for Pakistani football. He emphasized that the Government of Pakistan, under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, is committed to supporting the FIFA administration and working in collaboration with FIFA to advance football in the country. Highlighting the progress made since the end of the eight-year ban on Pakistan’s football activities, Rana Mashhood noted that the country is now poised to achieve greater heights and make its mark on the global football stage.
The Chairman PMYP stressed the government’s commitment to development across various sectors, including education, IT, skill development, culture, and sports, with football being a key area of focus within youth programs. He outlined the readiness of the country to take significant strides forward with fresh leadership at the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) under Syed Mohsin Gillani. Chairman also expressed his full support for PFF.
Sheikh Salman thanked the Chairman for the warm hospitality and expressed his confidence in Pakistan’s football potential. He acknowledged the challenges faced over the years but stated that the current moment presents a unique opportunity to usher in a new era for football in Pakistan. The FIFA Senior Vice President emphasized that the future of football in Pakistan would be shaped by collaboration among FIFA, PFF, and the government. Sheikh He also expressed confidence in the leadership of PFF under President Syed Mohsin Gillani. He confirmed FIFA’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s football development, particularly through the enhancement of infrastructure, provision of training, and expansion of youth football programs.
During the meeting, Sheikh Salman also underscored the importance of the social impact of football, noting that Pakistan’s large and youthful population offers an immense opportunity for the sport to thrive. He expressed optimism that with the right investment and continued support from all stakeholders, football can grow and have a transformative effect on Pakistani society.
Addressing infrastructure concerns, Sheikh Salman acknowledged the logistical challenges faced by the country, particularly in terms of limited football facilities. He highlighted that while progress will take time, FIFA and the AFC’s development programs will be instrumental in overcoming these hurdles. Through initiatives such as the creation of mini-pitches and centers of excellence, tangible improvements in football infrastructure can be expected in the near future.
Chairman Rana Mashhood further shared details of the PM’s Sports Talent Hunt Program, which aims to identify and develop talent across 23 sports, including football. He explained that football’s accessibility, as a sport that can be played in small spaces, makes it an ideal candidate for youth engagement at the grassroots level. He reassured that the government is committed to working with PFF, PMYP and the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) to develop a comprehensive plan that focuses on both infrastructure and talent nurturing, ensuring meaningful change in Pakistan’s football scene.
Syed Mohsin Gillani, President of the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), expressed his optimism for the future of football in Pakistan. He emphasized that the PFF is dedicated to working with the Government of Pakistan, FIFA, and other stakeholders to enhance football infrastructure, improve training, and develop talent at all levels. He highlighted that with the full support of FIFA and the government, Pakistan has the potential to become a strong contender on the global football stage.
All leaders concluded the meeting by expressing their shared commitment to working together to elevate the status of football in Pakistan. With FIFA’s expertise and the full support of the Government of Pakistan, they agreed to focus on infrastructure development, better training, and creating new opportunities for young football players across the country.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
