Lahore, Pakistan, March 27, 2024: The Pakistan Olympic Association, under the auspices of the President, Syed Mohammad Abid Qadri Gillani, held a meeting with officials of the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) where it was decided that Lahore would be the main hub of the South Asian Games.
The 14th edition of the Games has been delayed on a number of occasions due to issues between the POA and the government, mainly on the allotment of venues.
But the meeting on March 19 between the POA and the IPC Ministry points to serious steps being taken for the holding of the regional multi-sport competition, last held in 2019 in Kathmandu, Nepal.
“A coordination meeting between the Pakistan Olympic Association and the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination was convened in Lahore at Pakistan Olympic House with the primary agenda being to meticulously plan and orchestrate competitions for the 14th South Asian Games in Pakistan,” wrote POA Secretary General Muhammad Khalid Mahmood.
“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 officials aimed for effective planning and execution of the competitions for each sport featured in the 14th South Asian Games,” Mahmood stated.
He added: "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.”
It was also agreed both parties would meet on a regular basis to ensure the planning and facilitation required for hosting the Games. The dates of the Games were not finalised at this meeting.