rki.news
By Haroon Rashid Qureshi

DOHA: Pakistan’s globally recognized football manufacturing industry was highlighted at Katara Cultural Village following the inauguration of the Pakistan Pavilion, showcasing the country’s longstanding contribution to FIFA World Cup tournaments and its role in the global sports manufacturing supply chain.
The program commenced with Ms. Qurat Ul Ain Zafar, Trade and Investment Attaché, Embassy of Pakistan, Doha, who welcomed distinguished guests, members of Katara Cultural Village, Embassy of Pakistan staff, and media representatives, marking the formal start of the proceedings.
The pavilion, located at Building 45, was inaugurated by Katara General Manager Prof. Dr. Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, in the presence of H.E. Muhammad Aamer, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the State of Qatar.
At the outset of his remarks, Ambassador Muhammad Aamer expressed his gratitude to Prof. Dr. Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti and Katara Cultural Village for providing Pakistan with a platform to showcase its achievements during the FIFA World Cup 2026-related cultural activities.
Addressing the gathering, the Ambassador said that although Pakistan does not have a football team participating in the FIFA World Cup, it has consistently contributed to the tournament through its globally acclaimed football manufacturing industry.
He said Pakistan produces around 70 percent of the world’s footballs every year, reflecting the country’s dominant position in the global football manufacturing sector.
He noted that footballs produced in Sialkot have been used in approximately eight to ten FIFA World Cup tournaments over the years, further underlining Pakistan’s longstanding presence in the world’s most prestigious sporting event.
Ambassador Aamer highlighted that Pakistan’s football industry is a symbol of craftsmanship, precision, and innovation, evolving from traditional hand-stitching methods to modern manufacturing technologies that meet international standards and global demand.
He said the Katara exhibition offers visitors a valuable opportunity to explore Pakistan’s sporting heritage and its contribution to the FIFA World Cup 2026, being hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The Ambassador appreciated Katara Cultural Village for its continued support to the Embassy of Pakistan and for consistently providing platforms that promote cultural exchange and strengthen bilateral relations between Pakistan and Qatar.
He added that such initiatives play an important role in deepening mutual understanding between nations and showcasing Pakistan’s positive contributions on global platforms.
The exhibition also features the official Trionda match ball of FIFA World Cup 2026, manufactured in Pakistan, highlighting the country’s role in producing world-class sporting equipment for international tournaments.