Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated on Friday the renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, marking a significant step as Pakistan prepared to host the Champions Trophy after twenty-nine years.
Federal ministers and members of the assembly attended the event, highlighting the government's dedication to enhancing sports infrastructure.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also participated in the ceremony, reinforcing the provincial administration’s support for the project.
– Premier praises Naqvi's leadership in cricket and infrastructure development –
PM Shehbaz expressed immense joy on a significant day for Pakistan, acknowledging the remarkable progress made under the leadership of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman, Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi.
During his address, the prime minister referred to the successful completion of the renovation of the Qaddafi Stadium in a stunning manner. "The reconstruction of the Qaddafi Stadium has been completed in a truly splendid way," Shahbaz Sharif stated.
He praised the collaborative effort behind the achievement, noting that it was made possible in just 117 days. "Everyone worked together as a team to turn the impossible into possible," Sharif added.
Speaking about Naqvi’s exemplary leadership, the prime minister highlighted that Naqvi had a unique habit of rewarding those who did great work by taking them to London. "I would tell Mohsin Naqvi to take the 2,500 workers to London for a tour," Sharif suggested.
The prime minister also shared his thoughts on Pakistan’s cricket team, anticipating future triumphs. "We are all eagerly waiting for the Champions Trophy win," he remarked.
"InshaAllah, Allah will help our players, and we will witness the day when our national team defeats India. InshaAllah, Allah will grant the Champions Trophy to our team," Sharif added, expressing confidence in the team's capabilities.
Referring to the economic situation, Shahbaz Sharif acknowledged the challenging period, noting that after relentless efforts, economic stability had been restored in Pakistan.
"After tireless efforts, economic stability has returned to Pakistan," the prime minister said.
Shahbaz Sharif also mentioned the previous government, stating, "Under the current and PTI government, inflation had been rapidly increasing."
– PM Shehbaz's decision to appoint Mohsin Naqvi as PCB chief turned right –
Expressing his thoughts, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq said that PM Shehbaz's decision to appoint Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief had turned right.
Sadiq said, "I have played frequently at the Gaddafi Stadium. The cricket has been called as the game of by-chance."
He said, "We should boost the morale of the players, as winning or losing is part of the game."
– Naqvi acknowledges workers' dedication –
Meanwhile, PCB Chairman Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi took pride in the timely completion of the renovation of Qaddafi Stadium, which had been finished as per the target set before the Champions Trophy.
Naqvi emphasised the dedication of the 2,500 workers who contributed to the project, noting, “Today, we held a luncheon with the workers. Many of them had not returned home for three months.” He acknowledged their hard work and sacrifice throughout the renovation process.
The PCB Chairman also expressed his gratitude to the Pakistan Army for stepping in during difficult times. "Once again, the Pakistan Army came to our aid during challenging moments," Naqvi said, recognising their vital role.
Naqvi further acknowledged the invaluable cooperation of the Punjab government, stating, "Had the Punjab government not cooperated, the surroundings would have been filled with debris." He attributed much of the success of the project to the support provided by the local authorities.
Reflecting on the significance of the renovation, Naqvi remarked, “After 30 years, a major tournament is set to be held in Pakistan, and this stadium is now ready for it."
Meanwhile, renowned folk singer Arif Lohar, celebrated singer Aima Baig, and music sensation Ali Zafar lit up the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium. The event, which drew in a large crowd, marked a memorable occasion for the iconic venue.
