Trump unlikely to seek Imran Khan's release: Khawaja Asif

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif voiced scepticism over the likelihood of US support for Imran Khan’s release, stating that America also has a powerful "establishment" similar to Pakistan.

Speaking on a private news channel, Asif suggested that Donald Trump, who recently won the US presidency, would be unlikely to intervene for the former prime minister’s release.

Asif added that Pakistan’s relations with the US would remain cooperative where interests align, but Pakistan will stand firm on issues of contention.

He specifically highlighted the need for a ceasefire in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iraq, urging the new U.S. administration to take steps towards halting violence in the region. "Genocide must end, and a ceasefire should be a priority for any government," he said, welcoming any UN or other forum's efforts on the matter.

Commenting on the broader US-Pakistan relationship, Asif reiterated that Islamabad will not compromise on its principles and will resist any external pressures when necessary.

He emphasised that American officials, despite the strong "establishment" influence, will likely prioritise national interests over the release of Imran Khan, implying that no single case would lead the U.S. to jeopardise its strategic ties with Pakistan.

PM Shehbaz, Bilawal congratulate Trump on US election win

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has congratulated Donald Trump on his re-election as US President, calling it a "historic victory" for a second term.

In a tweet, Shehbaz expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with the incoming administration to bolster Pakistan-U.S. relations.

"I look forward to working closely with the incoming administration to further strengthen and broaden the Pakistan-U.S. partnership," Shehbaz wrote.

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Chairman Pakistan People's Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also congratulated Donald Trump on his "election and historic comeback" as U.S. President in a tweet on winning the election.

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Describing the victory as a "resounding" endorsement for Trump and his allies, Bhutto Zardari conveyed optimism for a more peaceful global landscape.

"The people of America have given him and his team a resounding victory," Bilawal wrote, tagging prominent figures like Elon Musk, J.D. Vance, Robert Kennedy Jr., and Tulsi Gabbard.

He highlighted the win as an "anti-war mandate" and expressed hopes that Trump’s administration would prioritise peace and work to reduce international conflicts.