Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Friday reaffirmed her government's commitment to provide all supports and cooperation in developing football and other sports in the region, including Bangladesh.

The assurance came when a 15-member delegation of Asian Football Confederation (AFC), led by its Chairman Mohammed Bin Hammam, met the Prime Minister at her official residence Jamuna on Friday afternoon.

Hasina said the government has been putting in its maximum efforts for development of all sectors, including sports, since assuming office last year.

The AFC delegation assured the Prime Minister of providing all necessary cooperation to Bangladesh in developing the country's sports sector.

The AFC chairman thanked Sheikh Hasina for her contributions to the development of Asian Football Confederation and thus expediting development of Asian football.

They also hoped that sports and culture in Bangladesh as well as in the region will achieve international standard in near future under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina.

Wishing an all-out success of the ongoing Bangabandhu SAFF Championship, the Bangladesh premier said such international tournament is very important as it plays a vital role in strengthening relationship with different countries and nations.

AFC Vice-President Manilal Fernando. South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) and Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) President Kazi Salauddin. Sports Secretary Mahbub Ahmed, Press Secretary to the Prime Minister Abul Kalam Azad, sports organizer Salman F Rahman and BFF Vice-President Badal Roy were, among others, present at the meeting.