Nawaz optimist about Pak-US ties after Trump’s victory

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif expressed optimism about the future of Pakistan’s relationship with the United States following Donald Trump’s victory in the US presidential elections. Sharif voiced his hopes that ties between the two nations would remain stable and continue to strengthen.

Speaking to journalists in London alongside his daughter, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, after returning from Geneva, Sharif remarked that Pakistan-US relations have historically been positive and emphasized the importance of maintaining and improving these ties. He also highlighted the necessity of fostering “good relations” with neighboring countries.

Commenting on India, Nawaz expressed disappointment over the Indian cricket team’s decision not to visit Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. He believed such a visit could enhance bilateral relations, noting, “Relations with India can improve, and there are no obstacles to achieving this. A time will come when the neighboring team will visit.”

Regarding smog issues in Punjab, Nawaz criticized the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), questioning the outcomes of its “billion-tree tsunami” initiative. He challenged the PTI to name any impactful projects it initiated during its tenure, accusing the party of promoting a culture of “misbehavior and hooliganism” in both governance and opposition.

He lamented the rise of political agitation, saying, “Chasing cars with eggs and tomatoes is not part of our religion or culture. Youth have been misguided into this behavior.”

When asked about PTI founder Imran Khan’s jail term, Nawaz deflected, stating, “Ask those who believe that.”

Nawaz also praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s efforts to stabilize the economy, citing improvements in foreign reserves, stock market performance, lower interest rates, and reduced inflation. He credited Maryam Nawaz and the Punjab government for initiatives like reducing flour prices and allocating Rs55 billion for electricity relief.

Maryam Nawaz added that her government is committed to addressing longstanding issues like smog and announced plans to explore the launch of a provincial airline, “Punjab Airline.” When asked about her health, she reassured journalists, saying she was undergoing treatment but feeling better.

The former premier recently traveled to Geneva from London, while CM Maryam Nawaz flew to Switzerland on a Pakistan Air Force plane, accompanied by Senior Punjab Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb and her personal staff.