Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir met with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday. This meeting, which lasted for 90 minutes, is seen as a significant step towards improving relations between the two countries. Sharif is in the US for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, where he is scheduled to address the General Debate on Friday.

The meeting included discussions on various topics, including security, economic cooperation, and counterterrorism. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance were also present. According to sources, the talks were described as "highly significant and security-focused," indicating a potential new era in the US-Pakistan strategic partnership.

Trump praised the visiting leaders, stating, "Field Marshal is a very great guy, and so is the Prime Minister." He expressed a desire to strengthen ties between the nations. The meeting followed a recent trade agreement that includes a 19% tariff on Pakistani imports and support for developing Pakistan's oil reserves.

In 2024, trade between the US and Pakistan reached approximately USD 10.1 billion, marking a 6.3% increase from the previous year. The US also recorded a goods trade deficit of USD 3 billion with Pakistan, up nearly 6% from 2023.

During the discussions, the Pakistani delegation raised concerns about rising terrorism from Afghanistan, unrest in Balochistan, and the situation in Kashmir. Trump assured Sharif and Munir of "full US support and cooperation" in addressing these threats. A decision was made to establish a "Joint Counter-Terrorism Command" in Pakistan to enhance collaboration in this area.

The meeting also touched on the Taliban regime in Afghanistan and the growing influence of China in the region. Munir requested the restoration of US-Pakistan military training programs, which had been reduced during the Biden administration. Trump responded positively, indicating a willingness to consider reinstating these programs.

Sharif formally invited Trump to visit Pakistan, and Trump welcomed the gesture. Rubio is also planning a visit to Pakistan later this year. This meeting marks a notable moment in US-Pakistan relations, with both sides expressing a commitment to deeper cooperation.