Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday extended his best wishes to the host nations and participating teams as the 23rd FIFA World Cup commenced, highlighting Pakistan’s contribution to the global sporting spectacle through the manufacture of the tournament’s official match balls.

In a message posted on his official X account, the prime minister described the opening of the FIFA World Cup as a special occasion for football fans around the world and a celebration of sport’s power to unite people across borders, cultures and nationalities.

“A very special day for football fans around the world as the 23rd FIFA World Cup kicks off today,” he wrote.

Shehbaz Sharif conveyed his good wishes to the host countries of the United States, Canada and Mexico as well as all participating nations, expressing hope for a successful and memorable tournament.

The prime minister said Pakistan was proud to be associated with the global football event through its internationally recognised sporting goods industry. He noted that the official match balls, “Trionda,” being used during the tournament had been manufactured in Pakistan, showcasing the skill, craftsmanship and expertise of Pakistani workers.

Pakistan is proud to be part of this global celebration through its renowned sporting goods industry. The official match balls, ‘Trionda’, being used at this World Cup have been manufactured in Pakistan, reflecting the skill and craftsmanship of our people,” he stated.

The prime minister said Pakistan’s contribution to one of the world’s most-watched sporting events underscored the country’s standing as a leading producer of high-quality sports goods for international markets.

He expressed the hope that the tournament would promote friendship, unity and sporting excellence among nations and inspire people around the world through the spirit of competition and mutual respect.

“May this tournament inspire friendship, unity, and sporting excellence across the world,” the prime minister said.