Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to host a grand reception today in honour of Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem, who recently made history by bringing home a gold medal for Pakistan.
According to sources, the prime minister has also extended invitations to several former Olympians, members of the federal cabinet, senior parliamentarians, and Arshad Nadeem's family to attend the event.
"The Olympics record holder should be welcomed with dignity," the PM is said to have instructed.
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The sources said that Arshad Nadeem, who broke a longstanding Olympic record, and his family will be received with full protocol as he arrives in Islamabad via the prime minister’s plane. The event will take place at the Prime Minister's House, where Shehbaz Sharif has instructed that the national hero be welcomed with the utmost respect and dignity.
In his remarks at a federal cabinet meeting ahead of the dinner, Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the significance of Nadeem’s achievement, noting that after 40 years, a national hero has once again brought a gold medal to Pakistan.
"The entire nation is celebrating and expressing gratitude to Allah for this remarkable achievement," the prime minister said.
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Shehbaz Sharif also acknowledged Arshad Nadeem’s perseverance, highlighting that despite the challenges faced in recent competitions, Nadeem did not lose heart or succumb to disappointment. Tributes were paid to the national hero in the federal cabinet meeting.
To further honour Arshad Nadeem’s accomplishment, the prime minister announced that a formal letter has been sent to the president, recommending a national award for the athlete. "Honouring our national hero is not just a duty of the government but of the entire nation," Shehbaz stated.
This evening’s event will be a moment of celebration and pride for the country, as Arshad Nadeem, alongside his family, will be feted by the nation’s leadership for his outstanding contribution to Pakistani sports.