Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s high-profile visit to the United States will culminate on Thursday when Trump meets Shehbaz Sharif at the White House, officials confirmed. Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, will also join the talks. This reflects Washington’s recognition of Islamabad’s combined political and military leadership.
Trade Breakthrough Ahead of Talks
The White House meeting follows Pakistan’s recent trade deal with the United States in late July. The agreement set a 19% tariff on Pakistani exports, a notable success at a time when Washington has yet to finalise any pact with India.
Shehbaz Sharif’s UN and Global Engagements
During his New York stop, Shehbaz addressed the UN General Assembly, joined a summit of Muslim leaders, and held talks with IMF and World Bank chiefs. He urged international lenders to account for Pakistan’s flood-related challenges in upcoming reviews. The prime minister also met Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the Global Development Initiative forum and discussed cooperation with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
Gaza Crisis and the Earlier Trump Meeting
Earlier this week, Trump and Shehbaz briefly exchanged views during a Muslim leaders’ meeting, focusing on the Gaza crisis. A joint statement stressed opposition to forced displacement in Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire to enable humanitarian relief.
Shifting US-Pakistan Relations
US officials believe relations with Pakistan are warming after years of tension. Meanwhile, Washington’s ties with New Delhi have faced strain under Trump due to trade disputes and visa issues. Analysts say this shift has given Pakistan new diplomatic space, strengthened by Islamabad’s support for Trump’s Nobel Peace Prize nomination earlier this year.
Agenda for White House Talks
For Washington, Thursday’s meeting, where Trump is set to meet Shehbaz Sharif at the White House, will focus on counter-terrorism, trade, CPEC-linked cooperation, and regional stability. According to the State Department, President Trump wants direct engagement with Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership to advance US interests in Asia.
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