Bilawal Commends Athletes, Pakistan Army Tops Medal Tally

KARACHI: The 35th National Games wrapped up in a vibrant closing ceremony in Karachi today, with the Pakistan Army emerging as the top medal-winning team.

Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, attended as the chief guest, while PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, along with Sindh’s Chief Minister and Sports Minister, were present to witness the grand finale.

As a gesture of Sindh’s pride in hosting the event, Bilawal presented Field Marshal Munir with a traditional Sindhi cap and Ajrak.

The Pakistan Army claimed first place with a total of 353 medals, including 200 gold, 97 silver, and 56 bronze. WAPDA finished second, securing 232 medals (85 gold, 73 silver, 74 bronze), while the Pakistan Navy came third with 110 medals (36 gold, 39 silver, 35 bronze). Host province Sindh ranked sixth with 96 medals, including 11 gold, 26 silver, and 59 bronze. Punjab earned 126 medals (16 gold, 38 silver, 72 bronze), and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) collected 108 medals (14 gold, 38 silver, 56 bronze). Pakistan Police received the Best Performance Trophy, and swimmer Hamza Asif Kot was recognized for setting national records in the 50-metre freestyle and breaststroke events.

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Trophies were distributed to the top three teams: Pakistan Army received the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, WAPDA the runner-up trophy, and Pakistan Navy the President of the Pakistan Olympic Association Trophy. Field Marshal Munir then officially declared the games closed.

In his address, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said the National Games were “not just a test of speed, strength, or skill, but a celebration of Pakistan itself.” He highlighted that athletes from across the country—from Gilgit-Baltistan to Gwadar, Khyber to Karachi—represented their provinces while competing under one national flag.

Bilawal praised the athletes as “ambassadors of discipline, perseverance, and national unity,” emphasizing that sports teach teamwork, courage, respect for rules, and resilience—values essential for the nation.

Referencing the May conflict with India, he lauded the professionalism and coordination of Pakistan’s armed forces, stating, “Our sovereignty was defended and national honour upheld, reflecting the unity of our people and the discipline of our forces.”

He concluded, “As the National Games end, may the friendships, lessons, and unity demonstrated here continue to strengthen the federation.”