Trump Hosts Pakistan PM Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir at White House

WASHINGTON D.C., Sept 26: US President Donald Trump on Thursday hosted Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir in the Oval Office on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), signaling deepening bilateral ties.

Trump praised both leaders as “great leaders” ahead of their closed-door discussion, highlighting improving US-Pakistan relations following recent trade agreements and strategic cooperation. This visit marks Prime Minister Sharif’s first trip to the White House.

Ahead of the meeting, Trump addressed the media, humorously noting delays and stating, “We have a great leader coming—the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the Field Marshal. They’re both great.” The informal exchange also included Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

The meeting comes after General Munir secured a USD 500 million US investment in Pakistan’s critical minerals sector, following his earlier visits to Washington in June and August. Sharif is in New York for the 80th session of the UNGA and is scheduled to deliver his address on Friday.

The Oval Office encounter follows a recent period of improved US-Pakistan relations, with Islamabad acknowledging Trump’s role in brokering a truce during the May conflict with India. Observers view the engagement as a continuation of Washington and Islamabad’s efforts to strengthen economic and strategic ties.