Islamabad: Pakistan and China have initiated preliminary talks regarding China’s assistance in the restoration, renovation, and expansion of the Islamabad Sports Complex, the country’s largest sports center. According to sources, Director-General of the Pakistan Sports Board, Yasser Peerzada, met with a high-ranking Chinese diplomat at the Chinese embassy yesterday and discussed the matter.The construction of the Pakistan Sports Complex in the 1980s was also facilitated by China. The Pakistan Sports Board, which oversees the complex, has planned a complete overhaul of the facility. Pakistan is set to host the South Asian Games at the same venue, for which renovation work is underway. However, the authorities believe that a substantial amount of funds is required for the complete reconstruction of the sports complex, which is not possible to provide through the Pakistani government alone.The Pakistan Sports Board’s various centers are in dire need of renovation. The Liaqat Gymnasium, which serves as a center for multiple sports, lacks central air conditioning and has a leaking roof. The renovation plan also includes the reconstruction of the Astro Turf, tennis courts, grass courts, and the construction of a world-class squash center.According to sources, preliminary talks have taken place, and a formal agreement between the parties may be signed soon. It is worth noting that Pakistan and China already have an agreement in place for cooperation in the field of sports.” Pakistan Sports Board’s Director General Facilities, Naveed Ahmed, stated that Pakistan desires to enhance cooperation with China in the sports sector. In this regard, the Director General Sports Board has initiated preliminary talks with Chinese authorities. Progress is expected in this matter soon”.The Pakistan Sports Complex has hosted numerous events, including the 1989 South Asian Games, the 2005 SAFF Championship, the 2014 SAFF Women’s Championship, and FIFA World Cup qualifiers also held at the Jinnah Stadium earlier this year.
