In a move shrouded in secrecy, Nawaz Sharif, the supreme leader of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), departed for China on what insiders are calling a “low-profile” five-day visit. The ruling party has remained tight-lipped about the specifics of Sharif’s trip, prompting widespread speculation about its nature and purpose.
Both PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar declined to confirm Sharif’s “unannounced visit” to Beijing, with Tarar stating to Dawn newspaper, “I have no idea [about Nawaz Sharif’s China visit].” However, a PML-N minister anonymously confirmed to Dawn that Sharif had indeed embarked on a “private visit” to China.
Media reports suggest that the visit may be of a personal nature, with Sharif reportedly scheduled for a medical check-up and meetings with Chinese companies regarding development projects in Punjab, where his daughter Maryam Nawaz holds the position of chief minister. Accompanying Sharif are Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Maryam’s son Junaid Safdar.
A source close to the Sharif family revealed to Dawn that the purpose of Sharif’s visit was not disclosed to the party leadership, fueling speculation within PML-N circles about the possibility of a “special assignment” for Sharif in China, potentially unfeasible for his younger brother, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Sharif’s decision to visit China, a departure from his usual medical trips to London, where he has undergone multiple procedures in recent years, adds intrigue to the situation.
Meanwhile, back in Punjab, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz chaired a meeting regarding the “Light without Electricity Bill, Roshan Punjab Programme,” aimed at providing free electricity to the poor. The government approved the provision of 1kV solar power systems to 50,000 households in the province, with plans for immediate implementation.
Additionally, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inaugurated the first virtual women police station at the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA). This innovative initiative aims to guide women through all stages of crime, from FIR registration to investigation and trial, utilizing various communication channels including the Women Safety App and live chat features.
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