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ISLAMABAD, Nov 6 (APP):FIFA Senior Vice President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa met Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan at the Prime Minister’s Office in Islamabad on Thursday. The meeting focused on how Pakistan, FIFA, and the Pakistan Football Federation can jointly revive football, build modern infrastructure, and support youth development nationwide.
The meeting was also attended by the President Pakistan Football Federation, Syed Mohsin Gillani and Member National Assembly, Syeda Amnah Batool, who serves as the focal person for PMYP.
Rana Mashhood warmly welcomed Sheikh Salman’s visit and expressed gratitude for his support at this crucial stage of Pakistan’s sports recovery. He reaffirmed that the Government of Pakistan, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is determined to work with FIFA and its regional bodies to restore Pakistan’s global standing in football.
He said the government aims to transform football into a strong driver of youth empowerment, social connection, and economic growth.
The Chairman highlighted the difficulties faced during the past eight years when Pakistan was under international suspension, which halted competitions, disrupted talent pipelines, and slowed football’s local progress.
He stated that with the ban lifted and reforms underway, Pakistan is now entering a hopeful new era with renewed leadership and long-term planning.
Rana Mashhood also emphasized that youth development remains a top national priority, with sports being promoted alongside education, skills development, IT, and cultural initiatives.
He appreciated the fresh leadership within PFF under Syed Mohsin Gillani, saying it reflects a commitment to good governance and stability. He assured that the Government, PMYP, and the Ministry of Inter Provincial Coordination will work in a strong partnership with PFF to deliver structural improvements.
Sheikh Salman thanked the Government and PMYP for their hospitality and admiration for football seen across Pakistan. He said the love for the sport in this country is powerful enough to build a strong future for football at every level.
He acknowledged the challenges Pakistan has faced, but stated that this moment provides an extraordinary opportunity for revival and long-term progress.
He confirmed that FIFA is deeply committed to supporting Pakistan through improved infrastructure, enhanced technical expertise and training, and wider participation in youth football across all provinces.
Sheikh Salman said Pakistan’s youthful population represents a major strength that can turn football into a national success story. He added that the sport has the ability to unite people, bring discipline into young lives, and offer professional pathways.
He underlined that football could particularly benefit underprivileged communities by giving them hope, direction, and opportunities to achieve their dreams.
Regarding infrastructure, he acknowledged that Pakistan needs more modern, safe, and accessible facilities. However, he reassured that FIFA and AFC development programs will help overcome these gaps with targeted initiatives.
He shared that projects such as mini-pitches, training centers, and hubs of excellence are being planned to deliver visible improvements in the near future.
Chairman Rana Mashhood briefed the delegation on the Prime Minister’s Sports Talent Hunt Program, which aims to identify potential in 23 sports including football.
He noted that football’s accessibility makes it an essential tool for engaging youth in crowded cities as well as remote and low-resource regions.
PFF President Syed Mohsin Gillani expressed confidence that Pakistan is ready to accelerate its football journey with the full support of FIFA and the Government of Pakistan.
He said the Federation is dedicated to strengthening administration, improving coaching and refereeing systems, and developing professional competitions and youth pathways.
He added that reviving women’s football, building youth leagues, and digitalizing the football structure remain key priorities for the coming years.
“These reforms will allow Pakistani players to rise through the ranks and compete internationally with pride,” he stated.
The meeting concluded with a strong and united resolve by all leaders to implement planned reforms, boost infrastructure, and ensure international exposure for Pakistani footballers.
They agreed that investments in youth, a partnership between FIFA and national stakeholders, and a focus on training and technology would deliver impactful changes.
With FIFA’s support and the commitment of the Government of Pakistan, the goal of strengthening Pakistan’s position in world football is now on a clear and promising path forward.