LAHORE: The Dutch Hockey Club team and the HEC Pakistan team, participating in the ‘Martyrs of Punjab Police Hockey Series,’ met the Governor of Punjab, Muhammad Balighur Rahman on Thursday.
Governor Rahman warmly welcomed the Dutch Hockey Club squad led by captain Ruben Cater, and the HEC hockey team, captained by Ali Murtaza.
Tair Iqar Shah, the Chief De Mission of the Dutch Hockey Club, was also present at the meeting. During the gathering, Chief Organizer Chairman Khawaja Junaid gave Governor Rahman a comprehensive briefing about the ongoing hockey series.
While speaking on the occasion, Governor Rahman emphasized the crucial role of sports in fostering a healthy society. He highlighted hockey as Pakistan’s national sport and praised the country’s legacy of producing talented Olympians in the field.
Governor Rahman also commended Pakistan’s ability in manufacturing high-quality sports equipment, particularly singling out Sialkot as a renowned hub for such production. He noted the city’s contribution to global sports, citing the use of Sialkot-manufactured footballs in the FIFA World Cup.
Highlighting the importance of cultural exchange, Governor Rahman emphasized the role of people-to-people connections in fostering closer ties between nations.
In response, the Dutch players expressed their admiration for Pakistan’s beauty and the warmth of its people, affirming the positive experience of their visit.
As part of their visit, the players were given the opportunity to explore various parts of the Durbar Hall and Governor House, further enhancing their cultural exchange experience.
