Islamabad: The Standing Committee on Inter Provincial Coordination convened its 16th meeting, highlighting significant issues related to the Pakistan Football Federation’s (PFF) constitutional alignment with FIFA and the regulatory framework for tourism services. Chaired by Dr. Mahreen Razzaq Bhutto, MNA, the meeting underscored the need for strategic alignment and infrastructure development in sports and tourism.
According to National Assembly of Pakistan, representatives from the Pakistan Football Federation informed the committee about its recent history of non-functionality and the necessary amendments identified by FIFA to align its Constitution with international standards. The amendments are expected to be communicated by December 2026, with full compliance planned by the first quarter of 2027. Furthermore, the Federation is planning to establish a football academy in Quetta, a move that has been shared with FIFA for potential support. The committee also emphasized the importance of enhancing sports infrastructure in other districts of Balochistan.
The meeting further addressed the regulatory framework for tourism, with the Controller of the Department of Tourist Services briefing the committee on recent legislative changes. Following the 18th Constitutional Amendment, the regulatory framework remains applicable to the Islamabad Capital Territory, while provincial authorities manage their respective jurisdictions. The committee highlighted the administrative challenges arising from separate provincial tourism authorities and directed the DTS to provide detailed audit reports of government-run travel agencies and language proficiencies of tourist guides to better accommodate foreign visitors. Additionally, concerns regarding the operations of Hajj and Umrah tour operators were addressed, with regulatory oversight being shared between the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the DTS.
The committee acknowledged the report presented by Dr. Mahreen Razzaq Bhutto, adopting its recommendations and directing the Ministry to ensure their implementation. Several Members of National Assembly, including Mr. Babar Nawaz Khan and Ms. Syeda Shehla Raza, attended the meeting alongside officials from the Ministry and its departments.