(Sports Correspondent;: Imran Sohail)
FIFA President Gianni Infantino Praises PM Shehbaz Sharif for Pakistan’s Development Efforts
October 29, 2025
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for Pakistan’s remarkable progress in sports and national development, describing the country’s transformation as “absolutely incredible.” He emphasized how football can play a vital role in promoting unity, happiness, and global connection.
Football as a Symbol of Unity
Speaking at the 9th Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh, a major global leadership event, Infantino praised Pakistan’s growing commitment to sports. He highlighted that while infrastructure and technology are crucial, nations must also invest in “emotions and happiness” — areas where football excels.
“What you are doing with your country is transformative,” Infantino said while addressing PM Shehbaz Sharif. “Alongside your investments in technology, education, and healthcare, investing in happiness through football brings people together like nothing else.”
Global Impact of Football
The FIFA chief reflected on football’s unique power to unite people worldwide. He noted how recent global tournaments, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, attracted billions of viewers and created moments of shared joy.
Looking ahead, the next World Cup, hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, is expected to set new records with over 6 billion viewers and 7 million fans attending matches in person.
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Infantino remarked, “At the end of the day, people want jobs and education, but they also need moments of joy — and that’s what football delivers. It brings the world closer and reminds us of our shared humanity.”
Pakistan’s Growing Role in Sports
The statement was well received by Pakistani officials, who continue to work toward expanding sports infrastructure and promoting football nationwide. The government’s broader vision focuses on linking economic growth with social and cultural uplift, with sports seen as a key driver of community engagement and youth development.
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PM Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership in advancing both development and sports has earned international recognition, reinforcing Pakistan’s growing presence on the global stage.
