Ambassador Asim Iftikhar meets Shahid Afridi at UN Headquarters

Former Pakistan cricket team captain and famous all-rounder Shahid Afridi called on Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations at the United Nations Headquarters in New York upon his invitation.

Shahid Afridi was briefed during his visit about the work of the Organization and its role in promoting international peace, security, sustainable development and multilateral cooperation, and was taken around the United Nations Headquarters.

Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, at a meeting with Shahid Afridi at the UN headquarters, welcomed him and lauded his exceptional achievements to Pakistan cricket and giving delight to millions of cricket fans around the globe with his dynamic performances and powerful stroke play.

He also lauded Afridi’s humanitarian and welfare initiatives, which, he added, had favourably touched the lives of many people, especially in disadvantaged places.

Ambassador Asim spoke about the importance of sports as a potent tool of diplomacy that crosses borders, builds understanding and brings nations and peoples together, at the meeting. He said sports might be an effective platform to promote peace, goodwill and international collaboration.

The ambassador also apprised Shahid Afridi on the work of the Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations including Pakistan’s active engagement at the UN in strengthening multilateralism, encouraging dialogue and diplomacy and contributing to world peace and security.

Shahid Afridi thanked Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad and the Pakistan Mission for the invitation and the great hospitality provided to him during his visit to the United Nations Headquarters.

He thanked the Mission for its key work and its positive role in promoting understanding, dialogue and multilateral cooperation among states, and in advocating the peaceful settlement of issues.

The visit underlined the common view of the constructive role that sports and diplomacy can play in developing bridges between peoples and fostering a more peaceful and cooperative international environment.

The Deputy Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN Ambassador Usman Jadoon and the officers of the Pakistan Mission were also present on the occasion.

Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad also held a banquet in honour of Shahid Afridi.