KARACHI, June 15: President of the Pakistan Billiards and Snooker Association (PBSA) Ali Asghar Valika was elected as Executive Vice-President of the Asian Confederation of Billiards Sports (ACBS) in its annual general body meeting held on Friday.

The post was lying vacant following the resignation by Malaysian W. Y. Chin sometime back.

The incumbent will serve the remaining term until the elections slated to be held next year in Dubai.

Unfolding the details of the meeting which lasted for over three hours, Valika said the UAE was awarded the 24th Asian meet to be held next year while Iran will play host to the 25th edition in 2009. Qatar was named stand-by in case Iran backs out.

“Every participating country will pay $35 per day per room on account of accommodation until the elimination to the host nation of the Asian meet as a step to share the burden, said Valika who has served as the ACBS president for six years, from 1994 to 2000.

He added the daily allowance for the referees supervising the Asian event has been raised from $10 to $20.

Referring to the calendar of events, the PBSA chief said the Asian team championship is being launched in China in August aimed to boost the regional circuit.

“The Chinese have struck a three-year deal with a sponsor who among other things has offered total prize money of $30,000 which will enhance to $40,000 next year and $50,000 in 2009 apart from free boarding and lodging,” he added.

He disclosed every team will consist of three players and a delegate, adding the first round loser will also earn a purse of $1050.

Pakistan, he said, will send two players to feature in the singles and team event in cue sports at the Macau Games in October.Pakistan cueists will travel to Bangkok in November to compete in the world championship which coincides with the 80th birthday anniversary celebrations of the King of Thailand.

The meeting also approved accounts besides confirming the minutes of the last AGM held at Colombo on July 5 last year.

The ACBS President Sindhu Pulsirivong, Secretary Syed Mahboob, and delegates attended the meeting.