Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently provided a significant boost to the life and career of national footballer, Mohammad Riaz. After a video of Riaz selling *jalebis* (a sweet treat) to make ends meet went viral, the Prime Minister took immediate notice and invited him to the PM House.
During the meeting, PM Shehbaz presented Riaz with a cheque for Rs. 2.5 million as financial assistance. He lauded Riaz’s resilience and determination, stating, “You are the country’s talented player, and we will not let your talent go to waste.” The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of supporting Pakistan’s youth, calling them a “valuable asset” and assuring that providing them with opportunities to compete at the international level is a top government priority.
The prime minister directed for Mohammad Riaz get hired for a position within a federal department of his choice. Further, he ordered that national players should be given roles in government organizations relevant to their skills. PM Shehbaz also pledged to work towards reviving departmental football in Pakistan, recognizing its historical importance as a source of employment for players.
“Youth should actively participate in sports and other healthy activities,” PM Shehbaz commented, encouraging Riaz to continue playing and contributing to the growth of football within the country.
The Prime Minister highlighted the urgent need to accelerate efforts for sports promotion nationwide. He called for a comprehensive strategy focused on the well-being of athletes representing Pakistan internationally, ensuring they have access to sustainable employment.
“A strategy should be formulated for the welfare of players and to provide them with sustainable employment opportunities,” he stated.
Mohammad Riaz expressed his sincere gratitude to the Prime Minister for both the financial support and his commitment to supporting athletes. He thanked PM Shehbaz for his initiatives to promote sports and improve the lives of players in Pakistan.
The meeting also included the presence of federal ministers Ataullah Tarar and Shaza Fatima Khawaja, PM’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah, Chairman of the PM’s Youth Program Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, and Media Coordinator Badar Shehbaz Warraich.