Prime minister says cricket fosters peace, unity, and friendship between nations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hosted a grand dinner in Islamabad in honour of the visiting South African cricket team and the Pakistan national team, celebrating the spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect between the two nations.
Welcoming the guests, the prime minister said the ongoing cricket series reflects the strong sports diplomacy and friendship shared by Pakistan and South Africa. “Cricket is not just a game — it brings people together, promotes brotherhood, and strengthens peace among nations,” he remarked.
Cricket as a Bridge of Friendship and Peace
PM Shehbaz highlighted how cricket continues to serve as a bridge of unity, connecting people from diverse backgrounds and promoting goodwill across borders. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to fostering international sports relations and ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for visiting teams.
“Pakistan remains dedicated to promoting global sporting events and showcasing our country’s love for cricket,” the prime minister said, emphasizing the importance of sports in building positive international ties.
He also praised the rich cricketing heritage of both countries, noting that Pakistan and South Africa have produced many world-class players who have earned respect and recognition around the globe. The prime minister extended his best wishes to both teams, expressing hope that the upcoming matches would feature top-quality performances and reflect the true spirit of competition.
South African Team Thanks Pakistan for Warm Hospitality
Members of the South African team and their management expressed heartfelt gratitude to the government and people of Pakistan for their hospitality and support. They described their visit as a “memorable experience,” lauding Pakistani fans for their enthusiasm and love for the sport.
So far, Pakistan and South Africa have contested two Test matches in the series. The teams are now preparing for a three-match T20 series, beginning on Tuesday, followed by three One Day Internationals (ODIs) to conclude the tour.
The event served as a reminder that cricket remains one of the most powerful tools for diplomacy, capable of uniting nations through sportsmanship and shared passion.
