Pakistan ex-PM Nawaz Sharif travels to China for medical examination
Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif on Monday embarked on a five-day trip to China, reports said. This marks his first international travel since returning from a four-year self-imposed exile in the United Kingdom in October last year. Sharif's primary purpose for this journey is to undergo a medical examination. However, speculations inside his party—Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)—are ripe that he will meet Chinese companies concerning development projects in Punjab, where his daughter Maryam Nawaz serves as chief minister.
Why does this story matter?
This is the first time that the 74-year-old political leader is visiting China for medical treatment. Previously, he visited the UK on medical grounds in 2019 and stayed there in self-exile, before his return in 2023 after the fall of Imran Khan's government. His younger brother Shehbaz Sharif is leading a six-party coalition at the Centre. Nawaz is said to be de-facto ruling Punjab Province where his daughter has been appointed CM.
Sharif to engage in meetings related to development projects
Sharif's visit to China follows a high court decision in November 2019 that permitted him to seek medical treatment abroad due to serious health concerns. In addition to his medical examination, the former Prime Minister also plans to engage in meetings related to development projects in Punjab province. He is expected to interact with Chinese business owners during his stay.
Bushra Bibi not suffering from any serious health conditions
In a separate development, doctors have confirmed that Bushra Bibi, wife of jailed former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, is not suffering from any serious health conditions. This announcement follows allegations by both Bibi and Khan that her food had been poisoned. However, a comprehensive medical examination conducted by Dr. Asim Yousuf revealed she was only dealing with a minor gastric problem.
PMN-L wins big in Pakistan by-elections
On Monday, the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has secured a majority in the recent by-elections, unofficial results showed. The party reportedly won two national and 10 provincial assembly seats. By-elections in Pakistan were held on Sunday across 21 national and provincial assembly seats, with stringent security measures in place. Amidst threat of unrest, cellular and internet services in certain districts were temporarily suspended to maintain law and order.
