FIFA backs Pakistan’s youth sports push: Sheikh Salman arrives on PMYP Invitation

FIFA Senior Vice President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa arrived in Islamabad on Wednesday on the invitation of Chairman Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan to review collaboration in sports development and youth participation across Pakistan.
FIFA backs Pakistan’s youth sports push: Sheikh Salman arrives on PMYP Invitation
He was welcomed at Islamabad International Airport by Syeda Amna Batool, Member National Assembly and Focal Person to the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme.

The reception highlighted the importance, the government is placing on this engagement and the role it sees for international partners in supporting young talent.
During his visit, discussions will be held on developing football training systems, skill development programmes, and improved access to sports for young people.
The talks will include proposals for enhancing training for referees, coaches, and student athletes so that they can progress academically as well as professionally in the sports sector.
Officials from PMYP said the government is making efforts to create a system where sports can lead to education, employment, and national representation. They noted that an increasing number of students are showing interest in sports-related studies and look forward to practical training opportunities.
Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan said Pakistan has a strong base of youth who actively participate in various sports but often lack the facilities and coaching needed to reach competitive standards.
He said better coordination with international organizations like FIFA could help improve the quality of football learning and training facilities in educational institutions and at the community level.
Rana Mashhood explained that PMYP is working to ensure equal access to sports for students from different regions, especially areas where resources are limited.
Rana added that the development of sports can support confidence building and teamwork among young people, while also promoting good health and a more active lifestyle.
Pakistan has one of the largest youth populations in the region, and authorities emphasize that expanding opportunities in sports is an important part of national development. The sports sector can provide jobs in coaching, administration, event management, fitness training, and other related fields.
The Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) views the visit as an important step toward introducing modern sports learning and encouraging more young people to engage in football. Further details of the cooperation are expected to be announced following planned meetings between the two sides.