Unlike his predecessors, Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan, during his maiden visit to the United States (US), is planning to stay at the residence of the Pakistani ambassador instead of some lavish hotel, a private media outlet reported.
According to reports, the Pakistani Embassy in the US has been informed about the premier’s intentions; however, his stay at the ambassador’s residence might not be possible due to his planned meetings with top US officials.
The residence is located in the heart of Washington’s diplomatic enclave, just off one of the city’s main arteries, Massachusetts Avenue, with at least a dozen embassies.
If the premier stays at the ambassador’s residence, he will not be able to meet US officials there due to a shortage of staff, Dawn News reported, adding that such meetings can, however, be arranged at the Pakistani Embassy.
While PM Imran’s plan to avoid a five or seven-star hotel in Washington, which comes amid his government’s aim to cut expenses and lighten the burden on the national exchequer, might not be achieved owing to security and logistical reasons, a final decision would be made soon.
The premier can also choose to stay with one of the rich Pakistani-Americans in the suburbs of Washington.
During his trip to Washington starting July 20, PM Imran is poised to discuss with US President Donald Trump the Afghan peace process along with regional issues.
“At the invitation of US President Donald Trump, PM Imran Khan will visit Washington and hold a meeting on July 22, 2019,” Foreign Office spokesperson Dr Mohammad Faisal announced last week.
Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and other officials will accompany the premier on the trip.
