ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday described the ongoing Pakistan–South Africa cricket series as a symbol of enduring friendship and mutual respect between the two nations, saying the game continues to strengthen people-to-people ties and project Pakistan’s soft image globally.
Addressing a dinner he hosted in honour of the cricket teams of Pakistan and South Africa at the Prime Minister’s House, the premier lauded the national side for earning international recognition through their outstanding performances.
“Pakistan’s cricketers have made the country proud on the world stage with their talent, sportsmanship and discipline,” he said, extending a warm welcome to the visiting South African team. “We have excellent relations with South Africa at multiple levels—and cricket remains a vital link in that relationship.”
وزیراعظم محمد شہباز شریف کا جنوبی افریقہ کی مہمان کرکٹ ٹیم اور پاکستان کرکٹ ٹیم کے اعزاز میں عشائیہ
وزیراعظم کی جنوبی افریقہ اور پاکستان کرکٹ ٹیم کے کھلاڑیوں سے ملاقات اور گفتگو۔
جنوبی افریقہ کی کرکٹ ٹیم کو پاکستان میں خوش آمدید کہتے ہیں۔ وزیراعظم pic.twitter.com/d8ZuPp0i30— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 25, 2025
The prime minister said he hoped the Pakistani team would continue to play with the same passion and brilliance that had brought them success in the past. “Cricket is not just a sport — it unites nations, fosters brotherhood, and promotes peace,” he remarked. “The true spirit of the game must always be preserved.”
Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif interacts with the management and players of Pakistan Cricket team. pic.twitter.com/D8KM59mozm
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 25, 2025
PM Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to promoting international sports and ensuring a safe and vibrant environment for hosting major sporting events. He expressed full confidence in Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the board’s management for their efforts to strengthen the sport at both domestic and international levels.
The premier said the government remained fully supportive of initiatives aimed at nurturing young talent and expanding Pakistan’s role in global sporting exchanges.
Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif addresses the managements and players of Pakistan and South African Cricket teams. pic.twitter.com/Ndx6vWwmOD
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 25, 2025
Members of both teams later met the prime minister and exchanged pleasantries. The South African players and management expressed gratitude to the government and people of Pakistan for their hospitality, describing the series as a memorable and heartwarming experience.
They said they were deeply moved by the warmth and enthusiasm shown by Pakistani fans throughout the tour.
Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal, Minister for Interior and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and senior PCB officials also attended the event.
