ISLAMABAD: Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2034 is set to create significant opportunities for friendly nations, particularly Pakistan, ranging from economic contributions to advancements in sports, Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Pakistan said.
Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki highlighted the potential role of Pakistan’s skilled workforce in infrastructure development and Pakistani businessmen’s investments in the mega event. He also emphasized the prospects for Pakistan’s football team to benefit from training and collaboration with Saudi experts.
While speaking to WE News on Thursday, the Saudi Ambassador said Pakistan’s trained workforce can potentially play an important role in building infrastructure for the upcoming mega event and other preparations. He noted the investment by Pakistani businessmen can lead to a major economic contribution during this important event.
FIFA, the world governing body of football, on Wednesday officially named Saudi Arabia as the host nation of the FIFA World Cup 2034. The Extraordinary FIFA Congress meeting also confirmed Morocco, Spain and Portugal as co-hosts of the 2030 World Cup.
Saudi Arabia will become the second Middle Eastern nation to host the tournament after Qatar staged the tournament in 2022.
Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki added that the event will also create an opportunity for the Pakistan football team to improve its world ranking. He said Pakistan can benefit from Saudi Arabia’s experience in football and can improve its game through training with Saudi experts.
It is pertinent to mention that Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday extended the heartiest congratulations to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Saudi Arabia for winning the right to host FIFA World 2034.
In his post on social media platform X, PM Shehbaz said this landmark achievement is a befitting recognition of Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global sports and its commitment to Vision 2030.
The Prime Minister said he looks forward to a spectacular tournament.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have always enjoyed strong brotherly ties. The two countries have stood by each other in difficult times and have closely cooperated in economic and social fields.
Hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup is a symbol of progress and prosperity for Saudi Arabia, and this can also provide immense opportunities for Pakistan.
Saudi Arabia is expected to initiate a large-scale construction drive for the mega event, including stadiums, hotels, roads, and other infrastructure. Pakistan, which is known worldwide for its trained and hardworking workforce, can play a key role in these projects.
The opportunity in Saudi Arabia will not only support the Pakistani economy but also further strengthen the economic ties between the two countries.
Pakistan holds a prominent position in the football world through its excellent quality footballs manufactured in the city of Sialkot. Pakistan’s dominance in football manufacturing provides ample opportunities for cooperation with Saudi Arabia and can bring long-term benefits to both countries.
Football is arguably the most popular sport across the world. Uruguay hosted the first football World Cup in 1930.
Football is a popular sport in Saudi Arabia with 171 club football teams in different leagues. Al-Ittihad Club of Jeddah is the oldest club in Saudi Arabia. It was founded in 1927.
