The Pakistani and Cuban governments have agreed to improve their sporting relations and decided to share the expertise in the field of sports that both the countries possess.
In a meeting of officials between the two countries, the possibility of launching a sports coaching exchange programme was also discussed.
The call-on meeting by Ambassador of Cuba Jesus Zenen Buergo Concecion in Islamabad yesterday was attended by Federal Minister Sports Shaukatullah, Federal Secretary Sports Aziz Ahmed Bilour and Director General Pakistan Sports Board Syed Amir Hamza Gillani.
While Pakistan sought assistance in boxing, Cuba was seeking coaching in cricket, hockey, squash and kabaddi.
“We want meaningful and improved relations in sports,” said the Cuban ambassador.
“We are willing to start a coaching exchange program. Pakistan possesses extraordinary talent in many sports like cricket, hockey, squash and kabbadi from which we could take advantage.”
Cuba to assist with volleyball, baseball
Meanwhile, the representative from Cuba exemplified full cooperation with regards to assisting Pakistan with baseball and volleyball.
“Baseball and volleyball are very popular sports in Cuba and we would be very pleased if our expertise is of any assistance to Pakistan,” added Concecion.
He also invited the sports minister to visit the University of Sports in Cuba which conducts research in the field of sports and provides training to players and coaches from all over the world.
Meanwhile, Shaukatullah took the opportunity to invite the Cuba volleyball team to tour Pakistan and assured full support to Cuba in lifting its sports for the mutual benefit of both the nations.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 23rd, 2011.
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