Dutch Sports Icons to Visit Pakistan for International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Pakistan has announced that two renowned Dutch sports figures, Floris Jan Bovelander and Kayanat Bokhari, will visit Pakistan at the end of April 2025 to celebrate the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP). This significant event will take place on April 6th, a day globally recognized for emphasizing the transformative role of sports in fostering peace, inclusivity, and development.

Floris Jan Bovelander, a legendary Dutch hockey player and Olympic gold medalist, is widely known for his outstanding penalty corner technique. Bovelander, who played an instrumental role in the Netherlands’ victory over Pakistan in the 1990 Hockey World Cup final held in Lahore, is set to celebrate the long-standing sports relationship between the two countries. His visit is expected to motivate and inspire young athletes in Pakistan to pursue excellence in sports and achieve their potential.

Joining Bovelander is Kayanat Bokhari, a talented Dutch-Pakistani footballer who represents Pakistan on the international stage. Bokhari is a strong advocate for women’s football, using her platform to empower women and promote gender equality in sports. Her participation in this visit will highlight the growing role of women in sports and showcase Pakistan’s emerging football talent to the world.

During their visit, both sports icons will engage with local communities, youth groups, athletes, and sports organizations. They will share their personal stories and experiences, demonstrating how sports can foster social inclusion and help bridge cultural divides. Their visit is aligned with this year’s IDSDP theme, “Leveling the Playing Field: Sport for Social Inclusion,” which emphasizes the ability of sports to break down barriers and unite diverse communities.

The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Islamabad invites all interested individuals and organizations to join this celebration of sports diplomacy. Bovelander and Bokhari’s visit promises to further strengthen the ties between the Netherlands and Pakistan, celebrating the shared passion for sports and the positive impact it can have on society.