In his statement marking the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP) celebrated on April 6th, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed Pakistan’s support for the global initiative. He emphasized how sport plays a crucial role in fostering unity across nations and overcoming various obstacles through positive transformation. According to him, sports serve as a powerful tool not only to promote domestic advancement but also to strengthen young people's capabilities and showcase Pakistan internationally. The PM highlighted that under their current administration, they have positioned sports at the core of their developmental strategy due to these benefits. Their national sports plan particularly aims to encourage inclusivity from early stages, identify promising talents, achieve parity between genders, and cover all aspects necessary for growth. Additionally, initiatives such as setting up the Arshad Nadeem/Shehbaz Sharif High-Performance Training Center reflect efforts towards scientifically enhancing player performance, providing monetary aid, and ensuring access to state-of-the-art amenities so that youths can be adequately prepared for upcoming hurdles. Moreover, the premier stressed upon establishing robust governance within sporting bodies by implementing changes geared toward greater openness, responsibility, and specialized competencies among officials.

This approach will improve institutional discipline, promote merit in selection of players and encourage moral values in the field of sports,' he remarked.

He stated that Pakistan aimed to establish itself as a leader in sports and tourism within the region by organizing nationwide training programs and hosting the 14th South Asian Games in 2026.

He called upon all stakeholders such as civil society organizations and development partners to ensure that sports feature significantly in policies and programs concerning education, health, development, and peace.

"Let's work together to reinforce our sporting framework and build a comprehensive, empowered, and sustainable community," he said additionally.

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