MANCHESTER: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar has called for accelerated and coordinated preparations for the 14th South Asian Games, scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan in March 2027.
Chairing a high-level meeting to review preparations for the regional sporting extravaganza, Dar directed the establishment of specialised subcommittees to oversee key areas, including financing, infrastructure development and upgradation, athletes’ training and preparation, and logistical arrangements.
The Deputy Prime Minister stressed that planning for the Games must begin in earnest and that all concerned institutions and stakeholders should maintain close coordination to ensure that Pakistan hosts the event to the highest international standards.
Dar emphasised the importance of completing preparations well ahead of the Games, saying that effective planning, efficient resource utilisation and timely execution would be crucial to the successful hosting of the regional multi-sport event.
He said the 14th South Asian Games represented an important opportunity for Pakistan not only to demonstrate its sporting potential but also to showcase its hospitality, organisational capabilities and commitment to regional cooperation. The Deputy Prime Minister said Pakistan should use the Games to send a strong message to the international community of peace and friendship among the countries of South Asia.
The meeting reviewed various aspects of preparations, with particular attention given to sports infrastructure, financial requirements, athletes’ preparation and the logistical arrangements needed to accommodate participating contingents.
Dar directed the relevant authorities to work closely with provincial governments and sports organisations to ensure that responsibilities are clearly defined and preparations proceed according to a well-coordinated timeline.
The meeting was attended by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa, President of the Pakistan Olympic Association Arif Saeed, Secretary of the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination, Director General Pakistan Sports Board, officials of the Ministry of Finance and representatives of the governments of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
