By Asif Naveed
KARACHI (MNN); The 35th National Games concluded in Karachi on Saturday with a grand closing ceremony, as Pakistan Army emerged as the top-performing contingent by securing the highest number of medals.
Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir was the chief guest at the ceremony, which was also attended by Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari.
Pakistan Army clinched first position with a total of 353 medals, including 200 gold, 97 silver and 56 bronze. Wapda secured second place with 232 medals, comprising 85 gold, 73 silver and 74 bronze. Pakistan Navy finished third with 110 medals, including 36 gold, 39 silver and 35 bronze.
Host province Sindh concluded the Games with 96 medals, of which 11 were gold, 26 silver and 59 bronze.
Following the medal distribution, Field Marshal Asim Munir, wearing a Sindhi ajrak, formally declared the National Games closed.
Addressing the ceremony, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said the National Games were not merely a test of athletic ability, but a celebration of Pakistan’s unity and diversity. He said athletes from across the country represented their respective provinces while standing united under the national flag.
He expressed pride in Sindh for hosting the prestigious sporting event and praised the athletes for representing Pakistan with discipline and determination. He said whether athletes returned with medals or memories, they would go back as ambassadors of perseverance, unity and national pride.
Bilawal said the performances showcased the true potential of Pakistan’s youth when provided with opportunity and encouragement. He added that sports instil values such as teamwork, courage, respect for rules and resilience, which he described as national values.
Referring to the May conflict with India, the PPP chairman said Pakistan’s armed forces demonstrated professionalism, coordination and strength. He said the country emerged victorious with its sovereignty safeguarded and honour upheld, calling it a national victory reflecting unity between the people and the armed forces.
Concluding his address, Bilawal expressed hope that the friendships built during the Games would endure, the lessons learned would guide the nation, and the unity displayed would continue to strengthen the federation.
