Pakistan and Bangladesh have discussed strengthening bilateral football relations, promoting sports diplomacy and creating new opportunities for young players through greater cooperation between the two countries. The matter was discussed during a meeting between Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Syed Mohsen Gilani and Bangladesh High Commissioner to Pakistan Md. Iqbal Hossain Khan, where both sides explored avenues for collaboration in football development.
Speaking on the occasion, Mohsen Gilani said football could serve as a bridge between nations by bringing young people together and fostering lasting friendships beyond borders. He emphasised that closer engagement between the football communities of Pakistan and Bangladesh could open up opportunities for youth development, the exchange of technical expertise, friendly matches and the promotion of the game at grassroots and professional levels.
“Football offers a powerful platform to bring people and nations closer. Pakistan is keen to strengthen its football ties with Bangladesh and explore opportunities that can benefit players, coaches and young talent in both countries,” Gilani said. Bangladesh High Commissioner Md. Iqbal Hossain Khan also underscored the importance of sports diplomacy in promoting mutual understanding, friendship and goodwill between nations.
He said sports offered a valuable platform for strengthening people-to-people ties, adding that football’s popularity among young people could play a significant role in bringing Pakistan and Bangladesh closer. The meeting highlighted the potential for enhanced sporting cooperation between the two countries, with a focus on developing young talent, exchanging expertise and strengthening people-to-people connections through football.
