Diplomatic Correspondent: Pakistan has donated 1,000 footballs for distribution among public schools across Bangladesh as part of efforts to promote physical education and strengthen bilateral cooperation in the education sector.

The footballs were presented during a meeting between the High Commissioner of Pakistan to Bangladesh, H.E. Mr. Imran Haider, and Bangladesh’s Education Minister, H.E. Dr. A.N.M. Ehsanul Hoque Milon.

During the meeting, the Pakistani envoy briefed the minister on the progress of the Pakistan-Bangladesh Knowledge Corridor initiative. The two sides discussed opportunities for collaboration in several key areas of education, including youth development, technical and vocational training, digital learning, physical education, and accreditation of educational institutions.

As a symbolic gesture, the High Commissioner presented a football manufactured by Pakistan-based Forward Sports of Sialkot to the Education Minister. Earlier, 1,000 footballs produced by the company had been handed over to Bangladesh’s Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education for distribution among public schools nationwide.

According to the High Commissioner, the donation aims to encourage physical education, health, and fitness among Bangladeshi students while promoting participation in football, a sport that enjoys widespread popularity across the country.

Highlighting Pakistan’s contribution to the global sports industry, Mr. Haider noted that Sialkot is internationally renowned as a major hub for football manufacturing. The city produces a significant share of the world’s footballs, including official match balls used in FIFA World Cups. Among them are the Brazuca (2014), Telstar (2018), Al Rihla (2022), and the recently unveiled Trionda for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Education Minister Dr. Milon welcomed the initiative and praised the goodwill gesture. He also expressed interest in enhancing cooperation in the various educational fields discussed during the meeting.

The engagement reflects growing efforts by both countries to deepen collaboration in education, youth development, and people-to-people exchanges.