ISLAMABAD – Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa touched down in Pakistan on Tuesday, commencing a significant three-day official visit aimed at strengthening football development across the nation.
The high-profile dignitary received a warm welcome at Islamabad International Airport, where Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Mohsin Gillani, AFC Secretary General Sonam Jigmi, and other prominent officials greeted him upon arrival.
Sheikh Salman, who simultaneously holds the position of FIFA’s Senior Vice-President, has been accorded State Guest status throughout his stay, underscoring the importance of this diplomatic engagement.
Strategic Meetings Planned
According to the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC), the AFC chief’s agenda includes high-level discussions with Pakistan’s civil and military leadership. These strategic meetings will concentrate on critical areas including football infrastructure development, capacity building initiatives, and potential collaborative ventures for advancing sports across Pakistan.
A Milestone for Pakistani Football
“This historic visit will unlock unprecedented opportunities and usher in a transformative era for Pakistani sports,” stated IPC Minister Rana Sanaullah Khan. He emphasized that the engagement would bolster sports diplomacy, empower youth participation, and strengthen regional cooperation with benefits extending throughout Asia.
This marks Sheikh Salman’s return to Pakistan since his 2014 attendance at the SAFF Women’s Championship, which occurred shortly after his election as AFC President.
The visit signals renewed international confidence in Pakistan’s sporting potential and commitment to developing world-class football infrastructure.
