Islamabad, April 5, 2025: Football leadership from PFF attended the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Extraordinary Congress 2025.
The meeting was held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, marking a crucial step in its efforts to return the mainstream of the game of football in the region.
The two-member delegation from PFF included President Saud Azim Hashimi and Acting General Secretary Muhammad Shahid Niaz Khokhar.
Officials from Pakistan Football Federation represented the country at the high-level meeting, which was chaired by SAFF President Kazi Salahuddin.
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Among the notable attendees was Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, who joined as a special guest.
Former AFC official Purushottam Kattel was appointed the new General Secretary of SAFF, a move seen as bringing fresh direction to the body.
On the sidelines of the event, PFF leadership met with AFC President Shaikh Salman and his deputy Vahid Kardany.
Their discussions centered around the normalization process currently underway in Pakistan football and the roadmap toward long-overdue PFF elections.
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Mr. Kardany was previously involved in helping align the PFF Constitution with FIFA and AFC requirements, resolving a prolonged governance crisis.
Saud Azim Hashimi shared updates on the election process, expressing appreciation for the AFC’s support during a critical phase for Pakistan football.
PFF President highlighted the steps being taken to ensure a fair and transparent vote.
In response, Shaikh Salman voiced confidence in Pakistan’s football future, stating that strong leadership is key to lasting development.
He reiterated the AFC’s commitment to helping Pakistan rebuild and grow its football structure.
The PFF delegation held informal talks with SAFF officials to explore regional partnerships and joint efforts to boost South Asian football.
