The world to witness fake smiles, awkward handshakes on 22 July

July 11, 2019 (MLN): The world shall witness the meeting of two most influential and contentious leaders on July 22. While one is a highly controversial tycoon known for his extremely prejudiced statements and notorious repute, the other is a celebrated name in Pakistan who has lately been at the receiving end of some serious flaks because of his impulsive decisions.

US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan will shake hands in Washington in coming days, to discuss a wide range of issues, including counter-terrorism, defense, energy, and trade, with the goal of creating the conditions for a peaceful South Asia and an enduring partnership between the two countries.

This meeting would also mark PM Imran Khan's first official visit to the United States since assuming power last year following a clear and cut victory in the general elections.

Nonetheless, it would be quite interesting to see these two exchange smiles and words, especially after the infamous twitter spectacle where both of them indulged in some serious war of words just about seven months ago.

In a series of tweets last year in November, Donald Trump accused Pakistan of being “one of many countries that take from the United States without giving anything in return”.

While he continued to throw mud on Pakistan for taking billions of dollars without any consideration, he also vehemently blamed former US politicians for not taking his words seriously.

However, Imran Khan didn’t let go off these accusations easily, as he also took to twitter to give a bashing reply to Trump’s testimonies. Here’s what he said:

Furthermore, he said that Trump’s false assertions add insult to the injury Pakistan has suffered in US War on Terror in terms of lost lives, destabilization and economic costs.

“Pakistan has suffered enough fighting US's war. Now we will do what is best for our people and our interests” he tweeted.

Amidst all of these tensions and adversities, it’s hard to believe that PM’s visit would renew and bolster long standing ties between Pakistan and the United States. However, our fingers are crossed as this visit might actually contribute towards building a long term and enduring partnership between the two countries on the basis of mutual interest and mutual benefit.

The past 72 years have seen Pakistan and the United States work together in successfully dealing with some of the leading geopolitical challenges. This history has ignited some hope in citizens of both the countries for economic cooperation that would bring about enormous growth and prosperity to both countries.

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