Islamabad Calls Back Ambassador to Washington Amid U.S. Criticism of Pakistan’s Missile Program

Islamabad: In response to continuous U.S. criticism and sanctions on Pakistan’s missile program, Islamabad has recalled its ambassador to Washington, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, for consultations.

According to private TV reports, Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh has arrived in Islamabad to engage in crucial discussions and receive important instructions. During his visit, he is set to hold significant meetings with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and policymakers at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Sources indicate that Ambassador Sheikh will also meet with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to brief him on the latest diplomatic developments in Washington.

While in Pakistan, Ambassador Sheikh will update the Prime Minister and the Foreign Office on recent diplomatic activities, achievements, and progress. Over the past three months, Sheikh has had key meetings with members of both chambers of the U.S. Congress, where he informed them about Pakistan’s perspective on various issues.

With the upcoming change in U.S. leadership in January 2025, following the potential return of the Trump administration, the Pakistani government plans to provide Sheikh with vital directives regarding Pakistan’s foreign policy. Discussions will focus on how U.S.-Pakistan relations will evolve under a new Republican-led administration, with consultations between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ambassador Sheikh expected to play a pivotal role.