![PM, AFC chief discuss roadmap for football [The News]](https://footballpakistan.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/PM-Shehbaz-Sharif-meets-AFC-president-Sheikh-Salman.jpg "PM, AFC chief discuss roadmap for football [The News]")
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday held a meeting with Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President and FIFA Senior Vice President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa in Islamabad, reaffirming Pakistan’s strong commitment to reviving and modernising football across the country.
The Prime Minister lauded the role of Sheikh Salman’s leadership in transforming the game of football across Asia, emphasizing that Pakistan looks forward to closer cooperation with the AFC to uplift the sport at the grassroots and elite levels.
The Prime Minister expressed keen interest in deepening collaboration with the AFC, particularly in developing football infrastructure and capacity-building programs in Pakistan including Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. He called for AFC’s technical support in coaching, refereeing, stadium construction, national training centers, and youth talent pathways.
PM Shehbaz also expressed Pakistan’s aspiration to host AFC tournaments and international fixtures, reflecting the country’s growing potential as a football destination in South Asia. Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa thanked the Prime Minister for the warm welcome and hospitality, and reaffirmed the AFC’s full support for Pakistan’s football development.
He appreciated the government’s vision for sports advancement and assured that the AFC would work closely with Pakistan to build a sustainable football ecosystem that benefits players, coaches, and fans alike.
Published in The News, 7 November 2025
PR No. 71
AFC President and FIFA Vice President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa Witnesses Girls’ Football Match at Islamabad College for Girls
Islamabad: November 06, 2025
The President of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and Vice President of FIFA, Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, today witnessed an exciting girls’ football match at Islamabad College for Girls, F-6/2, Islamabad. The event showcased the growing talent and enthusiasm of young female footballers in Pakistan.
During his visit, Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa was impressed by the confidence and excitement of the young girls as they showcased their skills on the field. He interacted with the players, coaches, and school administrators, praising their dedication to the sport.
“It’s heartening to see the passion and talent of these young girls. Football has the power to empower and inspire, and I’m delighted to see it being played at the grassroots level in Pakistan,” said Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa.
The AFC President also visited the school, meeting with students and faculty members. He commended the school’s efforts in promoting girls’ education and sports, particularly football.
Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa’s visit highlights the AFC’s commitment to developing football in Pakistan and promoting women’s football in the region.