BAJAUR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Peace Football tournament, featuring 16 teams from the tribal districts, Swat, and Chitral, concluded with a grand ceremony here on Friday.

Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps (North), and the district government organised the multi-day tournament, which culminated in a closing ceremony at the Khar sports complex following the final match.

Inspector General Frontier Corps North Major General Anjum Riaz, Deputy Commissioner Shahid Ali Khan, officials of the district administration and Frontier Corps were also in attendance at the closing ceremony, which featured performances by the FC band, local artists showcasing traditional music and dance, and a dazzling fireworks display that captivated the audience. The Bajaur and Chitral teams faced off in the final, which was watched by a large number of people, including football fans, elders and youth. The home team prevailed in a thrilling penalty shootout.

The closing ceremony’s chief guest, Major General Anjum Riaz, presented medals, trophies, and prizes to the standout players. Speaking on the occasion, he commended the participants for their skills and sportsmanship.

The players, elders, and young people in attendance conveyed their appreciation for the tournament’s organisers and stated that it was essential to fostering regional harmony and identifying players’ skills as well.

Describing the holding of this mega sports eventin the district as the result of ongoing peace efforts, they called for arranging more such sports activities to promote harmony and stability in the region.

Published in Dawn, November 30th, 2024