Jalandhar : Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann warmly welcomed the teams participating in the Asian Champions Trophy, inviting players and officials to experience the state’s rich cultural heritage, sporting traditions and spirit of brotherhood. He said Punjab’s doors and hearts were always open to guests, adding that hosting the international tournament was an opportunity to strengthen the state’s presence on the global sporting map.
The Chief Minister hosted a dinner in honour of the participating teams at his official residence, where he highlighted Punjab’s tradition of treating visitors with warmth and respect. He said the state government was committed to ensuring a comfortable, safe and memorable stay for every player, official and guest attending the championship.
Addressing the visiting teams, Mann described Punjab as a land shaped by courage, sacrifice, hard work and humanity. He recalled the contribution of Punjabis to India’s freedom struggle and the Green Revolution, noting that the sacrifices of freedom fighters and the dedication of farmers had played a significant role in the country’s progress.
He also highlighted the influence of Sikh Gurus, saints, spiritual leaders, poets and reformers, whose teachings have inspired generations to uphold equality, compassion, justice and mutual respect. According to the Chief Minister, Punjab’s distinctive identity is reflected in its historical legacy, agricultural traditions, vibrant festivals, folk music, energetic dances and the warmth of its people.
Mann expressed confidence that the visiting players would return home with lasting memories of Punjab, its people and their hospitality. He said the state’s cultural richness and tradition of welcoming guests would make their visit special beyond the sporting competition itself.
Describing the Asian Champions Trophy as an important opportunity for Punjab, the Chief Minister said hosting an international sporting event could help raise the state’s profile among global sporting communities. He added that such competitions could inspire young people to take up sports, promote fitness and discipline, and encourage emerging athletes to pursue excellence at national and international levels.
Emphasising the wider significance of sports, Mann said competitions bring people together across boundaries of nationality, language and culture. While players compete against one another on the field, they also become ambassadors of friendship, goodwill and mutual understanding outside it. He urged the participating teams to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and make the championship a celebration of talent, camaraderie and respect.
The Chief Minister reiterated that the state government had made arrangements to facilitate the smooth and secure conduct of the tournament and the comfortable stay of the participating contingents. He said Punjab’s responsibility extended beyond organising a sporting event, as the government also wanted every visitor to leave with a positive and lasting impression of the state.
Mann further said that the championship could open new avenues for sports tourism, youth development and international sporting engagement in Punjab. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving opportunities and infrastructure for athletes, adding that the state had a proud sporting tradition that deserved continued encouragement.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister extended his best wishes to all the teams and expressed hope that their stay in Punjab would be marked by sporting excellence, memorable experiences and enduring friendships. He reiterated that Punjab would continue to welcome visitors with open hearts and open doors.
