Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit to the United States is set to culminate in a significant meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House today, according to sources familiar with the matter. The anticipated meeting is a key development in the warming relations between the two countries, which have seen a series of high-level engagements in recent months.
During his visit, Prime Minister Sharif has led a busy diplomatic schedule, including participation in sessions of the UN General Assembly, a pivotal multilateral summit of the Muslim bloc, and crucial side meetings with the heads of international financial institutions.
The Prime Minister’s office and diplomatic sources have indicated that the meeting with President Trump is “almost certain,” with senior diplomats and media staff having already returned to Washington to prepare. The high-level nature of the engagement is further underscored by the possible inclusion of Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff, who was previously hosted by President Trump earlier this year.
In a meeting with International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Kristalina Georgieva, the Prime Minister appealed for the fund to take into account the recent flood damage in Pakistan during its upcoming review. He also met with World Bank Group President Ajay Banga, acknowledging the bank’s continued support for the country.
A separate meeting with President Trump and other Muslim leaders on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly yielded a joint statement on the Gaza Strip. The leaders rejected the forced displacement of people and called for an immediate ceasefire to allow for the entry of humanitarian aid.
The expected White House meeting is seen as a flagship event, signaling a new chapter in the U.S.-Pakistan relationship.
Potential Discussion Points for the White House Meeting
While officials have remained guarded about the specific agenda, the meeting between Prime Minister Sharif and President Trump is expected to cover a wide range of topics of mutual interest, including:
1. Strengthening Bilateral Relations and Strategic Partnership: The meeting will likely focus on solidifying the renewed momentum in U.S.-Pakistan ties, building on recent cooperation on counter-terrorism and economic fronts. Both leaders are expected to discuss ways to deepen the strategic partnership, address regional security concerns, and explore new avenues for collaboration.
2. Economic and Trade Cooperation: Following a recent trade deal between the two nations, discussions will likely center on expanding economic ties. This could include talks on further reducing trade tariffs, encouraging U.S. investment in Pakistan, and exploring opportunities in key sectors to boost economic growth and stability.
3. Regional Stability and Security: The leaders will address the evolving security landscape in the region, including efforts to combat terrorism and promote peace. Given the presence of Pakistan’s Army Chief, military-to-military cooperation and shared security interests are likely to be high on the agenda.
4. The Gaza Situation and Broader Middle East Concerns: Following the joint statement from the Muslim bloc leaders, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is expected to be a major talking point. Prime Minister Sharif will likely convey the collective concerns of the Muslim world and advocate for a sustainable ceasefire and a path toward a just and lasting peace.
The meeting holds significant importance for both nations and is anticipated to set the course for future engagements and cooperation.
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