Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari Saturday opened the 35th National Games 2025 by welcoming over 10,000 athletes from across the country at the National Bank Stadium.
While addressing the opening ceremony, the PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari welcomed the teams participating in the 35th National Games to Karachi.
‘In his concluding remarks, he encouraged the athletes and said, ‘Enjoy your sports.’
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah in his address said that the 35th National Games represent the ‘unity, diversity and strength of Pakistan.’
He welcomed athletes from across the country and said the return of the National Games to Karachi after two decades was a moment of pride for the province and its people.
The Chief Minister said the vibrant presence of athletes from all provinces and regions reflected the true beauty of Pakistan. “This is our mega event,” he said. “Today, the colours of all our provinces and regions shine in Karachi.”
Murad Ali Shah warmly welcomed the participants, acknowledging the hard work and discipline that brought them to this prestigious platform. “Each of you has made extraordinary efforts to reach here,” he said. “Your presence is not only an honour for the Sindh Government but a source of pride for the people of this province.”
Shah noted that hosting the National Games in Karachi after a long gap of twenty years was a historic moment, adding that Sindh was privileged to host talented athletes from other provinces, regions and federal departments. “Sindh’s rich culture is defined by its unmatched hospitality,” he remarked, assuring participants of the province’s full support throughout the competitions.
The Chief Minister said that the National Games stand among the most important sporting events in the country because they symbolise national unity. “These Games represent the collective strength of Pakistan,” he said. “Athletes from every corner of the country come together on one platform.”
Highlighting the extensive preparations for the mega event, Murad Ali Shah said competitions of 31 sports were being held across 24 venues in Karachi, with over 10,000 athletes participating.
He praised the Sindh Sports Department and the Sindh Olympic Association for their tireless efforts in organising the Games. “