Pakistani diplomatic sources on Thursday rejected media claims that former U.S. President Donald Trump was planning a visit to Pakistan on September 18.
Foreign Ministry insiders labeled the circulating news as “false,” clarifying that Trump was already scheduled for an official visit to the United Kingdom between September 17 and 19.
“There is no official information regarding any such visit,” a senior Foreign Ministry official told Anadolu Agency, speaking anonymously. “Any confirmed visit would be formally announced by the ministry.”
Earlier, Reuters had reported—citing unnamed sources from two Pakistani news channels—that Trump was expected to visit Islamabad in September and might proceed to India afterward. However, both channels later retracted their stories and issued apologies for sharing unverified reports.
A spokesperson from the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad also stated, “We have nothing to announce,” referring further inquiries to the White House. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Information Ministry did not respond to requests for comment.
Had it been confirmed, the trip would have marked the first U.S. presidential visit to Pakistan since George W. Bush’s in 2006.
Tensions between India and Pakistan had escalated earlier this year following an April 22 attack in Pahalgam that left 26 dead. India blamed Pakistan, which denied involvement. India responded with missile strikes on six Pakistani cities, killing civilians and damaging infrastructure. Pakistan retaliated by downing Indian fighter jets, including three Rafales, and launched Operation Bunyanum Marsoos targeting Indian military facilities.
Despite the conflict, recent diplomatic efforts have improved ties. Trump hosted Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir at the White House in an unprecedented move. Speaking after the event, Trump praised Munir’s role in de-escalating tensions, saying, “It was an honor to meet Asim Munir… He helped prevent war. He deserves recognition.”
Trump also expressed interest in a future trade agreement with Pakistan, calling the leadership of both India and Pakistan “truly remarkable.”
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