U.S. consulate organizes sports diplomacy event with special Olympians

Karachi, February 20, 2014 (PPI-OT): The U.S. Consulate Karachi joined by officials from Special Olympics Pakistan hosted a sports event for children with intellectual disabilities at the Consul General’s residence in Karachi on Thursday. U.S. Consul General Michael Dodman and Mr. Saeed Ahmed Khan, Chairman of Special Olympics Pakistan, presided over the event involving children from local schools who participated in various games and activities that showed how sports can be enjoyed by everyone regardless of any physical or intellectual disabilities.

“It is an honour for me to be here with so many wonderful young Pakistani Special Olympics athletes who show that even though we all may have different abilities, everyone can benefit from sports,” said Mr. Dodman, speaking at the event. “I applaud the work of all of the many volunteers in Pakistan who dedicate their time and efforts to helping those with intellectual disabilities develop confidence and new skills through sports.”

During the event, dozens of intellectually disabled children paired with student volunteers from U.S. Consulate Karachi’s English Access Program to perform athletics and play basketball. The young athletes’ parents and officials from the U.S. Consulate also joined in the activities. As part of the program, the U.S. Consulate honoured 16 special athletes who recently participated in the Asia/Pacific Special Olympics Games held in Newcastle, Australia.

Sports Diplomacy has emerged as an integral part of efforts to build ever-strengthening relations between the United States and other nations. Sports diplomacy uses the universal passion for sports as a way to transcend language and cultural differences and bring people together. Participation in sports teaches leadership, teamwork, and communication skills that help young people succeed in all areas of their lives.

For more information, contact:
Mushtaque A. Rajpar
Information Specialist
Office of Public Affairs
Plot No 3-5, TPX Area, Mai Kolachi Road
Consulate General of United Sates of America
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
Phone 021-35275453
Fax: 021-35275985
Cell Phone: 92-300-2022-462
Email: rajparma@state.gov