LAHORE: On the sidelines of the 76th FIFA Congress, Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Syed Mohsen Gilani met with Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al-Khalifa, who reiterated his full backing for Pakistan’s football development.
Sheikh Salman emphasized that the stability of the PFF remains a key priority for the Asian football family. He assured Gilani that the AFC will continue to provide support and guidance to ensure Pakistan’s football structures remain strong and sustainable.
The AFC president expressed satisfaction with the significant progress made by the PFF over the past year, noting achievements across multiple fronts including development of FIFA Arena pitches across Pakistan, entry into the FIFAe Nations League, marking Pakistan’s debut in esports football, growth of the Pakistan women’s national team, which has gained momentum with increased participation and visibility, and launch of the Football for Mental Health initiative in partnership with the United Nations, highlighting football’s role in social impact.
The meeting was also attended by PFF Vice-President Hafiz Zakaullah and Chief Operating Officer Shahid Niaz Khokhar, underscoring the federation’s collective effort to strengthen international ties and secure developmental opportunities.
