Trump to Host Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz Sharif at White House Amid Improving Ties

WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump will meet with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the White House on Thursday, marking the latest sign of strengthening ties between Washington and Islamabad.

Shehbaz Sharif was among eight Arab and Muslim leaders who held talks with Trump earlier this week on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly, where discussions focused on efforts to end the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

The meeting highlights a notable shift in U.S.-Pakistan relations, which have warmed as Trump’s once-close partnership with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cooled. Tensions between Washington and New Delhi have grown over India’s increased imports of discounted Russian oil following Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

In response, Trump imposed higher tariffs on Indian goods, aiming to curb India’s purchases and indirectly pressure Russia. The move has opened space for improved engagement with Pakistan, India’s longtime rival.

In July, the U.S. and Pakistan reached a new trade agreement designed to boost economic ties. The deal is expected to pave the way for U.S. investment in Pakistan’s largely untapped oil reserves while lowering tariffs on Pakistani exports.

Analysts say the agreement and the White House talks could mark the beginning of a closer strategic partnership, with Washington looking to balance relations in South Asia while Islamabad seeks greater economic support and global recognition.