Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) President Syed Mohsen Gilani held a high-level meeting with the U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker in Islamabad. The meeting aimed to strengthen football cooperation and promote Pakistan’s positive global image.
Football as a Tool for Diplomacy and Youth Engagement
The session took place under the “Let Freedom Ring” initiative, highlighting sport as a bridge between nations. President Gilani shared the PFF’s renewed vision under current leadership. He outlined collaborative efforts with the U.S. Embassy to advance youth programs, women’s football, and football diplomacy.
Gilani emphasized football’s potential to develop athletes and unite communities. He stated that the sport can also enhance Pakistan’s international image while promoting youth engagement.
Government Backing and Strategic Vision
During the meeting, the PFF President highlighted the robust support received from the Prime Minister’s Office and Ministry of Sports. He stressed that this backing ensures successful implementation of grassroots programs and institutional reforms.
“Our collaboration with the Prime Minister’s Office is focused on empowering Pakistan’s youth,” Gilani said. “By aligning local frameworks with global standards, we aim to prepare a generation that reflects Pakistan’s vibrant spirit internationally.”
US Embassy Commends PFF Progress
Ambassador Baker praised the rapid institutional growth achieved under Gilani’s leadership. She noted visible increases in fan engagement, government support, and organized football programs over the past six months.
The discussion concluded with a mutual commitment to prioritize three development pillars: advancing women’s football, expanding high-performance youth programs, and supporting the FIFA World Cup 2026 promotional campaign.
Pakistan’s Role in FIFA World Cup 2026
President Gilani affirmed Pakistan’s full support for the United States in hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026. He described the campaign as an opportunity to showcase a positive image of Pakistan globally. Gilani said the federation intends to play a key role in promoting the tournament.
He added that women’s football is now a central focus of PFF’s modernization strategy. The federation’s achievements were made possible through strong administrative support from the Pakistani government.
Pakistan Called a “Great Football Country”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino spoke about Pakistan football during the 56th annual World Economic Forum in Davos. Infantino praised the new leadership of the Pakistan Football Federation, calling the president’s work “fantastic.”
He described Pakistan as a “great football country” with potential to reach the top of Asian football. “We need to bring Pakistan to the head, to the top of Asia for sure,” he stated, adding that FIFA is actively working toward this goal.
Over the years, Pakistan’s ties with FIFA have strengthened. Recently, Pakistani lawmaker Syeda Amnah Batool was appointed to FIFA’s Institutional Reforms Committee. In November 2025, FIFA Senior Vice President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa visited Pakistan to discuss football infrastructure development with officials and federation executives.
Football has traditionally been popular among Pakistani youth, and grassroots participation has grown steadily. Interest has increased due to international leagues, local tournaments, school competitions, and community clubs in major cities.
However, football continues to exist in cricket’s shadow. Cricket has dominated Pakistan’s sports landscape for decades and remains the country’s most lucrative and popular sport.
Long-Term Football Diplomacy and Institutional Development
Both leaders agreed that the partnership goes beyond sport. They emphasized cultural exchange, sustainable governance, and institutional strengthening. The collaboration aims to prevent Pakistani football from facing past stagnation.
This strategic engagement positions Pakistan as a proactive partner in international football. It also highlights the country’s commitment to youth development, women’s participation, and global sporting events.
