ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif Saturday here hosted dinner in honour of cricket teams of South Africa and Pakistan.
The Prime Minister met and talked with players of both cricket teams. While welcoming South African cricket team to Pakistan, he said, “We have excellent relations with South Africa at various levels and cricket is one of them.”
“The ongoing cricket series is a symbol of the strong sporting ties and mutual respect between Pakistan and South Africa. South Africa has produced great cricketers,” he said adding, “Pakistan’s cricketers have made the country and nation famous worldwide with their excellent play.”
He expressed hope that the Pakistan cricket team will display a brilliant game as it did in the past.The Prime Minister expressed his best wishes for the players of both teams.
He said he has full confidence in the abilities of Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board Mohsin Naqvi.”Cricket is not just a game but it also connects people of different countries,” he said adding, “The game of cricket promotes brotherhood and peace. The true spirit of this game needs to be maintained.”
The Prime Minister highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to promoting international sports and maintaining a conducive environment for hosting major sports events.
Speaking on the occasion, the management and players of the South African team thanked the government and people of Pakistan for their hospitality.
They said that the series was a memorable experience and they enjoyed the overwhelming support and applause of the Pakistani fans.
Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal, Federal Minister for Interior and Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board Mohsin Naqvi, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting
Attaullah Tarar and senior officials of the Pakistan Cricket Board were also present at the dinner.