Lahore, Pakistan, January 2, 2025: Newly-elected Pakistan Olympic Association President Arif Saeed has emphasised that organising this year’s South Asian Games will be the POA’s top priority.
Speaking to the Pakistan media following the announcement of the POA election results on Monday, December 30, Arif highlighted the magnitude of the task ahead.
“There is still a lot of work to be done to prepare for the SAF Games, and substantial investment will be required. The POA, in partnership with the government, will work diligently to organise this event successfully,” Arif was quoted by The Dawn newspaper.
It has been proposed that the South Asian Games be held in November 2025.
Arif, who also heads the Pakistan Rugby Union, assured that his leadership of the POA would be anchored in honesty and transparency. He further emphasised that his primary focus would be to prioritise sports values.
“When the nation embraces merit and integrity, the standard of Pakistan’s sports will naturally improve,” he said. “The Olympic House will operate in line with the principles of the International Olympic Committee.”
New office-bearers of the POA:
President, Arif Saaed; senior vice president, Fatima Lakhani; vice presidents, Amir Jan, Majid Wasim; lady vice presidents, Ishrat Ashraf, Andleeb Sidhu; Secretary General, Khalid Mahmood; associate secretaries, Mohammed Jahangir, Aisan-ul-Haq, Wajid Chaudhary; lady associate secretary, Tehima Asif; treasurer, Ahmar Malik; Olympic sports representatives, Hafiz Imran, Arshad Sattar, Sadaf Ikram.