LAHORE, Feb 16: Four foreign teams including Afghanistan, Iran, India and Germany will take part in the 12th Tour de Pakistan cycle race being held during March 11-23.

This was decided at a meeting held on Wednesday under the chairmanship of provincial sports minister, Naeem Ullah Shahani. Secretary, Pakistan Cycling Federation, Idris Haider Khawaja was also present. A spokesman of the PCF said after the meeting that the mega event will flag off from Mazar of Quaid-i-Azam in Karachi and will terminate at Bab-i-Khyber Peshawar.

"Four foreign teams have confirmed their participation in the 12-stage competition which will also be participated by teams from four provinces, Army, Wapda, Railways and Sui Southern Gas Pipelines", he said and added "about eighty top riders will be displaying their talent and skills in the event which is a test of stamina and endeavour of the participants".

He said the route inspection of the race will be started from Feb 23. The provincial ports minister assured the meeting that the government will provide financial assistance to stage the international event in a befitting manner, said spokesman.

"It is going to be a big event as foreign teams will be taking part in it and its successful holding will enhance the image of the country around the world", said the minister. -APP