Former US President Donald Trump may visit Pakistan in September. This is being widely discussed in Pakistani media. Two major television channels, citing sources, have claimed that Trump may visit Islamabad, and his trip is considered important in terms of South Asia's diplomatic equations.
However, there has been no official confirmation of this visit from the Pakistani government or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Bush Made the Last Visit in 2006
If this visit takes place, it will be after nearly two decades that an American president will set foot on Pakistani soil. Prior to this, then-President George W. Bush visited Pakistan in 2006. At that time, the visit was quite significant in terms of the global fight against terrorism and US-Pakistan cooperation.
Now, almost 20 years later, the news of a potential visit by an American head of state has stirred up political circles.
Foreign Ministry Denies Information
The spokesperson for Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has so far declined to comment on the entire matter. According to a Reuters report, the spokesperson said that they have no information regarding President Trump's visit. However, sources say that Trump's visit may take place in the third or fourth week of September.
Trump's Visit to India Also Possible
According to reports, Trump may also visit India after Pakistan. This trip will be entirely focused on South Asia, which is being seen as a new strategic phase in American foreign policy. There has been no official confirmation regarding Trump's visit to India either, but it is being discussed in American political circles.
Hopes Rise After Army Chief's Visit to Washington
In the backdrop of this potential visit, the recent US visit of Pakistan's Army Chief, General Asim Munir, is considered important. In June, General Munir visited the White House in Washington D.C. and met with US defense officials. This was the first time that the Pakistani Army Chief was officially invited to the White House.
Since this meeting, a new warmth has been seen in US-Pakistan relations.
Increasing Headlines in the Media
Major Pakistani channels and newspapers have given prominence to Trump's potential visit. Especially major channels like Geo News and Dawn TV have described it as a major event in South Asian diplomacy. This news is also rapidly going viral on social media, and people are giving different reactions.
Questions on the Timing of the Visit in the Electoral Environment
Preparations for the 2024 presidential election have begun in the United States, and Donald Trump is trying to reach the White House again. In such a situation, his visit to Pakistan is also being linked to the election strategy. Experts believe that this trip may also be an attempt to strengthen Trump's foreign policy image.
Visit Amid Internal Politics in Pakistan
Trump's proposed visit is taking place at a time when Pakistan itself is struggling with political instability and economic crisis. The weakening hold of Imran Khan's party PTI, the increasing activity of the Nawaz Sharif faction, and the army's role in politics are such situations where Trump's visit could give a big political signal.
No Statement From the White House
Currently, there has been no statement from the White House regarding Trump's potential visit. It is noteworthy that Donald Trump is not officially the president at the moment, but he is considered the best candidate from the Republican Party. Every activity of his is being linked to the potential agenda of the next presidential election.
