The sixth Embassy Football Fest began in Dhaka on Friday, bringing together diplomats and international officials as 35 teams from foreign missions and international organisations compete in a two-day tournament featuring 43 matches.

The tournament was inaugurated at the Armed Police Battalion field in Uttara by Dr Md Nazrul Islam, Secretary (East and West) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who noted a record turnout this year with 31 foreign missions and international organisations participating in the seven-a-side competition.

“I am pleased to see so many diplomats and participants gathered here today. I can see that the Honourable Ambassador of Italy himself will be playing, which truly reflects the spirit of this festival,” Islam said at the opening ceremony.

He said it is not just a tournament. “It is a message of peace, unity and mutual respect among all nations,” the secretary added.

The competition, sponsored by the Saudia Airlines, comprises 27 group-stage matches and 16 knockout fixtures, with defending champions Saudi Arabia returning to protect their title.

British High Commission Deputy High Commissioner James Goldman expressed optimism that football would be “coming home” this weekend.

Additional Inspector General of Police Ali Hussain Fakir welcomed the diplomats, describing the event as a celebration of friendship among nations.

Salman Alali, Country Manager Bangladesh at Saudia Airlines, said the airline was proud to support the annual festival. Italian Ambassador Alessandro De Masi and Filipino Ambassador Nina P Cainglet were among the distinguished guests present.

Teams have been divided into nine groups, representing countries and organisations including the United States, Pakistan, the World Bank and various United Nations bodies. Matches are played in two 10-minute halves to ensure fast-paced action.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain is scheduled to present the trophies at Saturday’s closing ceremony.

World Bank Country Director Abdoulaye Seck said the event showcased “a beautiful display of multilateralism at play.”

The festival, managed by GamePlay Limited, continues to place sports diplomacy at its core, using football to foster unity, dialogue and goodwill among nations.