LAHORE: Contact between the Pakistan Olympic Association and the Ministry of Inter-provincial Coordination over the organisation of the South Asian Games was re-established on Tuesday as the two held a meeting here at the Olympic House on Tuesday where it was decided that Lahore would be the main hub for the regional sporting extravaganza.

The 14th edition of the Games were to be held last year but faced a delay due to issues between the POA and the government, mainly over the allotment of venues.

While the POA was in favour to set the main hub in Lahore with events in other cities of Punjab namely Sialkot, Gujranwala and Faisalabad as well in Islamabad, the IPC ministry, then under Fehmida Mirza, preferred Islamabad as the main hub.

The tug of war over the venue mean no funds were released but luckily for Pakistan, the South Asian Olympic Council decided to give POA more time instead of shifting the Games to another country.

With the meeting of the POA and the IPC ministry after the newly-elected government has assumed power, serious steps are likely to be taken for the holding of the Games.

“A coordination meeting between Pakistan Olympic Association and the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination was convened here at Lahore today at Pakistan Olympic House, Lahore,” a POA news release stated.

“In this high-level meeting, Syed Mohammad Abid Qadri Gillani, President Pakistan Olympic Association graciously welcomed esteemed guests, the Federal Secretary and Additional Secretary of the IPC.

“The primary agenda of this assembly was to meticulously plan and orchestrate the various competitions slated for the 14th South Asian Games in Pakistan, ensuring a seamless and successful execution. President POA updated the attendees about the proactive measures taken by the POA, highlighting a meeting convened with all National Sports Federations (NSFs) on 9 March 2024, at POA House, Lahore.

“The officials aimed for effective planning and execution of the competitions for each sport featured in the 14th South Asian Games.

“The Secretary-General of the POA provided an exhaustive briefing to the IPC delegates. This briefing encompassed a thorough presentation that detailed all logistical and operational facets of the Games, including venue allocations, scheduling, sports disciplines, accommodation logistics, financial management, and other ancillary concerns.

“A consensus was reached on the necessity of conducting regular coordination meetings ensuring the planning and facilitation required for the grand staging of the 14th South Asian Games. Given that Lahore is designated as the central hub for the majority of the Games’ events, it was agreed that the Government of Punjab would be integrally involved as pivotal stakeholders in the planning and execution process.”

POA’s plan to include Sialkot among the venues was driven by the expectation that fans in Indian Punjab will be able to come to Pakistan as many from across the border frequently visit a shrine in Narowal. With Lahore close to the Wagah border, sports fans from India will also be able to attend the Games.

Published in Dawn, March 20th, 2024