PM Shehbaz to Join Select Muslim Leaders’ Meeting

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will attend a high-profile meeting of “Select” Muslim leaders with US President Donald Trump in New York during the upcoming 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session, the Foreign Office (FO) confirmed on Sunday. This marks the first direct interaction between PM Shehbaz and the US President since Trump took office earlier this year.

The prime minister will lead Pakistan’s delegation to the high-level UNGA segment from September 22, joined by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and senior officials. According to the FO, Shehbaz will highlight Pakistan’s stance on prolonged conflicts, including Kashmir and Palestine, and emphasize the urgent need for decisive action to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He will also draw attention to global challenges such as climate change, terrorism, Islamophobia, and sustainable development.

The FO noted that the prime minister will participate in several side events, including United Nations Security Council meetings, the Global Development Initiative forum, and a special Climate Action session. He will also meet world leaders and senior UN officials to discuss issues of mutual concern.

Analysts say the meeting with President Trump comes at a critical moment, following Israeli attacks in Qatar that have strained US credibility in the Middle East. Pakistan recently reinforced ties with Saudi Arabia through a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement, underlining its commitment to regional security.