Riyadh: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Dream Asia Foundation Conference kicked off Wednesday in Riyadh, in cooperation with the United Nations Football for Goals initiative. A select group of officials and experts from within and outside Asia participated in the conference.

According to Qatar News Agency, the conference included representatives from the United Nations, UEFA, FIFA, and several international organizations. Speakers discussed ways to use football to support the Sustainable Development Goals and enhance humanitarian and social work. The conference focused on child protection, youth empowerment, gender equality, and social inclusion, in addition to reviewing the AFC's most prominent social responsibility initiatives.

AFC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa said during the conference that the AFC Dream Asia Foundation has become a pioneering model in using football as a tool for positive social change, noting that the AFC's programs have "touched the lives of thousands across the continent" thanks to cooperation with member associations and international partners. Al Khalifa emphasized that football is not just a game played on the field but an effective means of uniting people, building communities, and promoting respect, equality, and tolerance.

He highlighted the AFC's commitment to serving humanity using football as a tool to build a brighter future for the people of the continent. Over the past eight years, significant strides have been made in social responsibility, implementing development and humanitarian initiatives and programs that have encompassed most national and regional member associations. Al Khalifa acknowledged the impact of these efforts in supporting children and youth, empowering women, and promoting inclusiveness in football. He credited these successes to the cooperation of partners and their belief in the shared message that football can be a powerful force for good and change.