Islamabad, Punjab Province, Pakistan: During a private trip to Pakistan, Jasdeep Singh Jesse chairman of Sikhs of America and a well-known Sikh representative in the United States met Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He was accompanied by his business associate, Sajid Tarar.

Although the meeting was informal and not part of any official schedule, it allowed both sides to discuss the deep-rooted historical relationship between the Sikh community and Pakistan, as well as the cultural significance of various Sikh heritage locations in the country.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warmly welcomed the visitors and highlighted the strong spiritual and cultural bond Sikhs around the world share with Pakistan. He mentioned the importance of revered sites such as Nankana Sahib and Kartarpur Sahib, which hold a special place in Sikh history.

Jesse and Tarar expressed gratitude for the upkeep and accessibility of these shrines, noting that they are of immense religious value to Sikhs globally. Jesse added that many members of the Sikh diaspora frequently travel to Pakistan for worship and personal reasons, helping promote mutual understanding between communities.

Their conversation also included the experiences of foreign pilgrims, the support provided by local authorities during visits to major gurdwaras, and the need for continuous preservation of Sikh historic sites.

While no official policy issues were discussed, both sides described the meeting as cordial and meaningful. Jesse thanked the prime minister for the warm hospitality, and Prime Minister Sharif expressed hope that people of all faiths continue to feel welcomed at Pakistan’s historic religious destinations.