Former Pakistan cricket team captain and celebrated all-rounder Shahid Afridi visited the United Nations Headquarters in New York at the invitation of Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations.
During his visit, Shahid Afridi was given a tour of the United Nations Headquarters and also briefed on the work of the Organization and its role in promoting international peace, security, sustainable development and multilateral cooperation.
In a meeting held at the UN headquarters, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad welcomed Shahid Afridi and commended him for his outstanding contributions to Pakistan cricket and for bringing joy to millions of cricket fans around the world through his dynamic performances and powerful stroke play.
He also appreciated Afridi’s humanitarian and welfare initiatives, which, he said, have positively impacted the lives of many people, particularly in underserved communities.
During the interaction, Ambassador Asim underscored the importance of sports as a powerful instrument of diplomacy that transcends borders, fosters mutual understanding, and brings nations and peoples together. He noted that sports can serve as an effective platform for promoting peace, goodwill and international cooperation.
The Ambassador also briefed Shahid Afridi on the work of the Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the United Nations, including Pakistan’s active engagement at the UN in advancing multilateralism, promoting dialogue and diplomacy, and contributing to international peace and security.
Shahid Afridi thanked Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad and the Pakistan Mission for the invitation and warm hospitality extended to him during his visit to the United Nations Headquarters.
He expressed appreciation for the Mission’s important work and its constructive role in fostering understanding, dialogue and multilateral cooperation among nations, and advocating the peaceful settlement of disputes.
The visit reflected the shared recognition of the positive role that sports and diplomacy can play in building bridges between peoples and promoting a more peaceful and cooperative international environment.
Ambassador Usman Jadoon, Deputy Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN and the officers of the Pakistan Mission, were also present on the occasion.
Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad also hosted a dinner in honor of Shahid Afridi.
