National Games conclude with glittering finale

Bilawal Zardari hails the event as symbol of unity and national pride

KARACHI:

The 35th National Games concluded on Saturday with a spectacular and colourful closing ceremony at the National Stadium, ending the event with renewed enthusiasm and a pledge for improved future performance. The next National Games will be held in Lahore in two years under the auspices of the Punjab Olympic Association.

Field Marshal Asim Munir attended the ceremony as chief guest. He awarded the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy to Pakistan Army, which successfully defended its title with a clear margin. WAPDA secured second position and received the Wajid Ali Trophy from PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, while Pakistan Navy finished third and was awarded the Pakistan Olympic Association Trophy.

Asim Munir officially declared the Games closed, after which the Olympic flame — kept burning in traditional style for eight days — was extinguished.

He emphasised that the National Games were more than contests of speed, strength, or skill — they were a celebration of Pakistan, bringing together athletes from every province under a single flag while proudly representing their respective regions.

Highlighting Sindh's role as host, Bilawal noted the province's historic contribution to Pakistan, including the adoption of the first resolution in favor of the country, and praised its ongoing commitment to federal unity and national harmony through hosting such grand events. He commended Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah and Provincial Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs and Organising Committee Chairman Sardar Muhammad Bakhsh Khan Mehr for their efforts in ensuring the smooth conduct of the games.

Bilawal expressed pride, confidence, and renewed commitment to the nation while addressing the closing ceremony. In a press release issued by the Bilawal House Media Cell, he stated that although the National Games 2025 have concluded, the spirit and enthusiasm they fostered will continue to promote unity, discipline, and hope across Pakistan.

Bilawal also applauded all participating athletes, noting that whether they won medals or not, they return as ambassadors of discipline, perseverance, and unity to their home regions. He extended gratitude to coaches, officials, volunteers, medical staff, organisers, and security personnel for maintaining a peaceful, secure, and dignified event.