(anwar Abbas) FFC Diplomatic Cricket Tournament 2024 concluded with the victory of the media team in the city of Iqtar.
12 teams competed in the 3-day FFC Diplomatic Cricket Tournament 2024, including teams from the embassies of Spain and Canada and the United Nations agencies UNHCR and UNICEF, while 2 teams from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also participated in the tournament. I participated.
both the United Nations teams failed in the semi-finals of the 3-day-long tournament, while in the final match, the media team achieved the target of 111 runs for the loss of 5 wickets and won the trophy by defeating the FFC, People of Pakistan. Party General Secretary Muftah Ismail and Ambassador of Bulgaria Irina Gancheva awarded prizes to the successful teams.
In a special conversation with 24 News on this occasion,the ambassador of Bulgaria,Irina Galinova,described the healthy activities as positive and said that sports are an international language and it brings together people from different countries and nations to create unity and mutual understanding.Irina Gancheva said that such activities convey the message of promoting peace from Pakistan to the rest of the world.
The Ambassador of bulgaria further said that “organizers, sponsors and all participants of the tournament have come here to promote the popular sport of Pakistan and are promoting understanding, peace and harmony through this popular pakistani sport”.
On this occasion,other participants also described such activities as meaningful for the positive image of pakistan and the youth. In the closing ceremony, the winning media team of the FFC Diplomatic Cricket Tournament 2024 was given trophies and medals, while Khurram Siddiqui was awarded the best player of the tournament. , Ahsan Waheed was adjudged the best bowler and Ghayur the best wicket keeper.
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Interview with Irina Gancheva, Ambassador of Bulgaria, on the FFC Diplomatic Cricket Tournament 2024
Time.news editor: Thank you for joining us today, Ambassador Gancheva. The recently concluded FFC Diplomatic Cricket Tournament 2024 in Iqtar saw some exciting matches. What were your thoughts on the event’s association and participation?
Irina Gancheva: thank you for having me. The tournament was incredibly well-organized, bringing together 12 diverse teams including embassies from Spain, Canada, and United Nations agencies like UNHCR and UNICEF.It was heartening to see such a vast participation, which emphasized cricket as a beloved sport in Pakistan and a medium for international dialog.
time.news Editor: Speaking of international dialogue, you mentioned that sports act as an “international language.” How do you think events like this impact global relations?
Irina Gancheva: Absolutely. Sports events foster unity and understanding among people from different backgrounds. During the tournament, we witnessed collaboration and camaraderie among teams that typically compete. This spirit of competition can bridge cultural gaps and strengthen diplomatic ties, sending a clear message of peace not just within Pakistan but worldwide.
Time.news Editor: The media team emerged victorious in this tournament. What message does their win send to aspiring players and communities across Pakistan?
Irina Gancheva: The victory of the media team is significant not just for the participants but also for the wider community. It serves as an inspiration for youth to engage positively in sports, demonstrating teamwork, dedication, and resilience. It shows that success can come from various spheres of life, promoting a culture of inclusivity and motivation.
Time.news Editor: During the closing ceremony, awards were given for best player, bowler, and wicketkeeper. How do such recognitions contribute to the sports culture in Pakistan?
Irina gancheva: Recognitions like these are vital as they celebrate individual excellence and hard work,motivating not onyl the winners but also encouraging their peers. Celebrating achievements highlights the talent present in Pakistan and nurtures a culture of excellence within sports, ultimately enriching the nation’s image on an international platform.
Time.news Editor: In your opinion, what role does cricket play in shaping Pakistan’s international image?
Irina Gancheva: Cricket is undeniably a source of national pride in Pakistan.It has the potential to project a positive and progressive image of the country. Through successful sporting events, pakistan can demonstrate its capabilities in organizing major events, thereby attracting international attention not just for sports but for tourism, culture, and diplomacy as well.
Time.news Editor: what advice would you give to young sports enthusiasts in Pakistan?
Irina Gancheva: I encourage young athletes to pursue their passion with determination and discipline. Engaging in sports teaches invaluable life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience. I advise them to participate in events like the FFC Diplomatic Cricket Tournament, as these platforms can facilitate interactions with diverse groups, fostering personal growth and international friendships.
time.news Editor: Thank you, Ambassador Gancheva, for sharing these insights. Your perspective on the intersection of sports and diplomacy is truly enlightening.
Irina Gancheva: Thank you for having me.I’m thrilled to discuss the importance of these events and the promising future of sports in Pakistan.