TLDR:
• Clinton admired Nawaz Sharif’s qualities
• Clinton avoided Musharraf during his visit
• Personal bond aided Nawaz’s release
ISLAMABAD (The Thursday Times) — Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi shared insights on former U.S. President Bill Clinton’s admiration for Nawaz Sharif, citing the Pakistani leader’s personal qualities as pivotal in building Clinton’s trust. Abbasi elaborated on the unique relationship between the two leaders, noting Clinton’s role in supporting Nawaz Sharif’s release from imprisonment—a gesture rooted in personal respect rather than formal diplomacy.
Clinton’s admiration for Nawaz Sharif
Bill Clinton, as recounted by Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, held a deep admiration for Nawaz Sharif due to his charismatic and principled nature. Abbasi described how Sharif’s personality impressed Clinton on a personal level, marking him as a figure Clinton found both trustworthy and capable. This connection reportedly influenced Clinton’s decisions concerning Pakistan, notably during times of political instability. Clinton’s affinity for Sharif, Abbasi argued, demonstrated a rare instance where political decisions were driven by personal trust rather than mere diplomatic protocol.
Clinton’s discreet avoidance of Musharraf
Abbasi pointed to an incident that underscored Clinton’s disapproval of then-ruler Pervez Musharraf’s authoritarian regime. During Clinton’s visit to Pakistan, he consciously refrained from engaging with Musharraf, refusing even a photo opportunity with him. This diplomatic snub was widely interpreted as a subtle yet strong message of disapproval from the American leader. Instead, Clinton chose to address the Pakistani public directly, sidestepping any overt endorsement of Musharraf’s government, further solidifying his alignment with democratic figures like Nawaz Sharif.
Clinton’s role in Nawaz’s release
Abbasi noted that Clinton’s personal rapport with Sharif played a decisive role in advocating for his release during a politically charged period. Clinton’s intervention was reportedly motivated by his genuine respect for Sharif, a stance rarely seen from U.S. presidents regarding foreign leaders in Pakistan’s tumultuous political landscape. Abbasi contrasted this with Donald Trump’s perceived indifference toward figures such as Imran Khan, underscoring that Clinton’s influence stemmed from an uncommon personal bond that transcended typical diplomatic boundaries.
