Pakistan PM Sharif yet to return home as PoK protests intensify, Gaza peace plan unravels: Timely break or escape?

Massive protests have gripped the sensitive Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) region since the last two days

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif seems to be "unwinding" after an intense week of diplomatic engagements, even as the nation grapples with political and economic turmoil.

Sharif, who visited the United States to meet President Donald Trump and attend the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, flew directly to London afterwards and has yet to return home. However, the timing of his visit has raised eyebrows.

Sharif’s London visit

Shehbaz, who arrived in London on September 27, has extended his stay till October 2. During his stay in London, the 74-year-old leader is expected to undergo a fitness examination.

A source close to the Pakistani PM told CNN-News18 that Sharif wants to have a relaxing time in London and explore the city. The source said that Sharif extended his stay as he wanted to spend some time with his family.

The report added that Sharif plans to go shopping and would like to indulge in some fine-dining eating, as doctors have recommended him to go easy and live a stress-free life. He has also scheduled meet-ups with a few family members, friends as well as the business community.

Crucial time for Pakistan

Sharif's London visit comes at a time when Pakistan is facing both internal and external challenges. There is domestic uneasiness back home due to Islamabad's decision to back US President Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan.

Deputy PM Ishaq Dar distanced Pakistan from the 20-point peace deal on Tuesday, calling it a "US document", even as Trump claimed that army chief Asim Munir and PM Sharif are "100%" onboard the plan.

Moreover, massive protests have gripped the sensitive Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) region since the last two days, with Awami Action Committee (AAC) launching sweeping demonstrations across the region to seek long-denied political as well as economic rights.

The AAC called the "shutter down and wheel-jam" strike across several districts, forcing authorities to deploy heavy security and internet blackout.

According to reports, two people have died while over 22 have been injured in the massive demonstrations after police opened fire at the agitators.

Meet with Trump & UNGA address

During his meet with President Donald Trump, Pakistan Prime Minister invited American companies to invest in the country.

The Pakistani prime minister earmarked the agriculture, technology, mining and energy sectors for investment from US companies, Reuters reported citing a statement from his office. Trump previously called for American companies to explore for oil in Pakistan.

"The Prime Minister expressed the confidence that under President Trump's leadership, the Pakistan-US partnership would be further strengthened to the mutual benefit of both countries," it said.

Field marshal Asim Munir was also present at the meeting.

Meanwhile, Sharif also described Trump as “a man of peace” while addressing the UN General Assembly. He said his country nominated the US President for the Nobel Peace Prize for his “outstanding contribution” to promote peace in South Asia following the conflict with India.

During his address, Sharif referred to 'Operation Sindoor' launched by India in May in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.

"Though in a position of strength, Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire facilitated by President Trump's bold and visionary leadership. We express our deep appreciation to him and his team for their active role in bringing about the ceasefire," Sharif claimed.

India has been consistently maintaining that the understanding on cessation of hostilities with Pakistan was reached following direct talks between the directors general of military operations of the two militaries.

"In recognition of President Trump's wonderful and outstanding contribution to promote peace in our part of the world, Pakistan nominated him for the Nobel Peace Prize. This is the least we could do … I think he truly is a man of peace," Sharif said.