Jalandhar, October 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday welcomed participating teams of the Asian Champions Trophy at a dinner hosted at the Chief Minister’s Residence, assuring players and officials of the state’s hospitality and arrangements for a comfortable stay during the international tournament.
Mann said hosting the championship was an opportunity to showcase Punjab’s cultural heritage, sporting potential and tradition of welcoming visitors. He expressed confidence that the visiting teams would return with lasting memories of the state and its people.
“Punjab is not merely a geographical territory; it is a land defined by sacrifice, courage, hard work, revolutionary fervour and humanity,” the Chief Minister said, highlighting the state’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle and the Green Revolution.
He described Punjab as the land of Gurus, saints, poets and reformers whose teachings promoted equality, compassion, brotherhood and justice. He also pointed to the sacrifices of freedom fighters, the contribution of farmers to food security and the courage of soldiers as central to the state’s identity.
Mann said the government had made arrangements for the smooth and safe conduct of the tournament and the comfort of participating teams. He added that Punjab wanted players, officials and visitors to experience more than a sporting event, with the warmth of their reception remaining a lasting memory.
The Chief Minister said the Asian Champions Trophy would strengthen Punjab’s presence on the international sporting map and inspire young people to pursue sports, fitness and discipline. He also expressed hope that the tournament would encourage sports tourism, youth development and greater international participation in sporting activities in the state.
Emphasising the ability of sport to bring people together across national, linguistic and cultural boundaries, Mann urged the teams to uphold sportsmanship and mutual respect.
He said the championship offered Punjab an opportunity to present its cultural traditions, vibrant music, folk dances and progressive outlook to an international audience, while demonstrating its capacity to host major sporting events.
Reaffirming his government’s commitment to developing sports infrastructure and nurturing young talent, Mann wished all participating teams success and expressed hope that the tournament would foster enduring friendships among players and nations.
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