Major General Muhammad Akram Sahi, a well-known sports administrator in Pakistan, is in the city to cheer for his team, which is taking part in the 22nd Asian Athletics Championship. Subhashish Mohanty of The Telegraph speaks to him on a wide range of topics at Kalinga Stadium

Being the president of the Athletics Federation of Pakistan and a member of the council of the Asian Athletics Association, you must have visited various parts of the world. How would you rate Odisha's preparations for the event?

The big thing is that Odisha has made it possible in 90 days. It's not a matter of joke. It is a world record by itself. They have put new tracks in the stadium and have also put two practising tracks for training. They have actually renovated the entire stadium, which is a big thing. It shows the strength of Odisha and reflects the leadership and vision of Naveen Patnaikji. The entire Asia has come to Odisha. You will realise it if you visit the Kalinga Stadium. They have made the competition of very high standards and tough for others to emulate. Lot of efforts has been put into making this event successful.

What do you like most here?

The ambience of Kalinga Stadium. We go everywhere in the world. I have not seen such wonderful arrangements anywhere else. It all has been possible because of Naveen's team. I must give thanks to the sports minister Chandra Sarathi Behera who is here around the clock and is helping us. I also heard from him how Naveen's father Biju Patnaik had gone on a bicycle from Odisha to Peshawar. It is really astounding. Even the way Odisha presented its history - its journey during the inaugural event - was simply amazing.

There was apprehension that your team may not be able to take part in the event because of problems with visas...

When there was delay in getting visas, I had also apprehended that we might not be able to take part in the mega event. Being a sports lover, it caused me a lot of pain. Thanks to the chief minister Naveen Patnaik's efforts, formalities were expedited.

Don't you think that politics has entered the field of sports in the sub-continent?

Politics should not enter sports. Politicians should do politics and let the players enjoy sports. People should enjoy sports.

Both India and Pakistan are two strong nations. Why do we fail to compete with Japan and China in the field of sports?

Japan has adopted new technology in sports. China has emerged as an economic superpower. This is being reflected in sports. But India and Pakistan are also emerging as big players.

You have already been here for three days. What's your impression about Odia people?

The people are wonderful. Everyone is so courteous and they are giving so much respect and love to our team members. I am overwhelmed at their love and affection. Our team members felt it when they were taking part in the march past. eople have bestowed their love on us. It's a true indication of how people of both sides share warm feelings for each other.

Have you have made any plans to visit the popular tourist places of Odisha?

This is my first visit to Odisha. I have read many things about the state. Till yesterday, I was busy. Now, I plan to go for a tour of Sun Temple at Konark. I also want to go to Puri.

Have you found any similarities between the people of Pakistan and Odisha?

Both Pakistan and Odisha have lovely people. The people in both these places want to enjoy life.