Islamabad: Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan’s javelin superstar who created history for Pakistan by winning a gold medal with a 92.97-metre throw, expressed his gratitude to Allah Almighty and the nation for the respect and honor bestowed upon him on winning the Gold Medal at Paris Olympics. He was speaking at a ceremony held in his honor at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) on Tuesday where he was also presented with a cheque of Rs. 10,00,000/- by ICCI President Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari. A cheque of Rs. five million will also be presented to national heroes by the Business community of Islamabad.
Arshad Nadeem attributed his success to hard work and dedication, stating that there was a long journey behind his achievement. He vowed to maintain his performance in upcoming events.
Earlier, Arshad Nadeem received a warm welcome upon his arrival at the Chamber House.
Addressing the ceremony, ICCI President Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari highlighted the significance of sports in promoting national unity and praised Arshad Nadeem as a national hero who ended Pakistan’s 32-year wait for an Olympic medal, lifting the nation’s spirits during a challenging time.
Bakhtawari emphasized the need to promote sports to attract youth towards healthy activities, foster harmony, and promote peace and tranquility. He stressed that winning gold medals is essential in today’s world, as it earns nations recognition and respect. He encouraged the creation of more athletes like Arshad Nadeem to bring pride to Pakistan.
On behalf of the ICCI he called for increased support for Pakistan’s sporting talent, better facilities and nurturing to enable young athletes to excel on the global stage. It is the collective responsibility of sports organizations to collaborate in securing funding and providing essential infrastructure, such as stadiums and training facilities, to aspiring sports stars.
He apprised the audience that ICCI has already taken the initiative to establish a sports academy in Islamabad with the help of Capital Development Authority which will be named after Arshad Nadeem and that the Chamber will extend its fullest support for the promotion of healthy activities not only in Islamabad but the entire Pakistan.
Secretary General United Business Group and former Zafar Bakhtawari said Arshad Nadeem by winning the gold medal has ignited a candle of hope in the nation in despair. He said that the Pakistani nation is a great nation which can generate wonders if it gets guidance. He said that it is at the credit of Arshad Nadeem that he created a unity in the nation at this challenging time which is the need of the hour. He further said that sports always play an important role in bringing the nations closer to each other and promoting peace and harmony the world-over.
Senior Vice President ICCI Faad Waheed appreciated Arshad Nadeem for winning the gold medal because of his hard work and determination despite the meager resources by saying that we will have to promote games to ensure a healthier atmosphere for our youth.
Vice President Engr Azhar ul Islam Zafar in his vote of thanks said that the entire nation is indebted to Arshad Nadeem for giving this gift which is being celebrated throughout the country.