"Sports and culure are a powerful catalyst that can enhance the bilateral bonding of nations and bridge the cultural, societal, and political gap between nations," said Meena Mujeed Baloch, Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs in Balochistan.
"We can create numerous opportunities for both male and female sportspersons while nurturing bilateral ties. We have talented sportspeople in both Oman and Baluchistan, and we are also in talks for league matches with these teams," she said during a visit to the Oman Observer and Oman Arabic Daily on Thursday, sharing insights into building relationships through sports and culture.
A seven-member delegation from Baluchistan and Pakistan led by Meena Mujeed Baloch, and including Dr Irfan Ashraf, Anchorperson at Samaa TV, DG of Think Tank Centre for Development and Stability and film-maker; Fajjar Minhas, Researcher for Centre for Development and Stability; and Shaandar Bukhari, a social activist, visited the newspaper premises on Thursday. Reham Khan, Senior Journalist/Anchorperson at Suno TV, Ahmad Subhani, CEO of Falcon Eye, and Emran Siddiqui were also part of the delegation to Oman.
"I appreciate the kindness and generosity of the people of Oman, and we are considering organising a tripartite sports event with Oman, Pakistan, and Baluchistan participating. We are truly touched by Omani hospitality. I am from the Makran region, which shares many cultural and traditional similarities with Oman, creating a natural bond between our peoples," she added.
The visiting minister further stated that Oman has already granted funds for Gwadar port, several roads, hospitals, and sports preservation. They are exploring ways to enhance bilateral tourism, foreign investment, and sports events.
"Oman is a country where women are increasingly prominent, and they should be encouraged not only in Oman but throughout the region to participate in sports activities and become international players. However, women face many tribal and religious challenges, and it is up to the states to enact legislation to help them excel in sports," she added.
Dr Irfan Ashraf, Anchorperson at Samaa TV, DG of Think Tank Centre for Development and Stability, and film-maker, observed that Pakistan and Oman have shared great relations for centuries. The visit marked a significant milestone, as the team led by the minister engaged in various discussions.
"The Sultanate of Oman is always an honour for us because His Majesty has served the people of the country greatly. This country is very impressive and serves as a role model for other countries. Oman is a land of love, peace, and great people, and I believe that sports can enhance bilateral relations," Dr Irfan said.
Plans are underway to organise a football match with Omani, Pakistani, and Balochi teams competing. One match will be held in Muscat, the second in Gwadar, and the third in Islamabad.
"Our people are enjoying the hospitality of the Omani people, and we strongly encourage others outside Oman to visit this country to experience the warmth of the country and its people," said Fajjar Minhas, Researcher for Centre for Development and Stability, appreciating Oman's ranking as the most peaceful country and a nation that preserves its traditional identity to the core.
Shaandar Bukhari, a prominent figure in social service who has been continuing the legacy of his late father, SAS Bukhari, played a crucial role in facilitating the visit. He emphasised the importance of bridging the gap between all communities living in the country, regardless of nationality or race, and thanked the media for their instrumental role in this endeavour.
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