Pakistan PM expresses wish to stay at the ambassador's residence during US visit
Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has expressed his wish to stay at the ambassador's residence during his visit to the US later this month in a bid to cut costs as the country's economy is struggling.
Pakistani daily Dawn reported the news that the US Secret Service, which is responsible for the security of all visiting dignitaries, is not "very receptive" towards the idea. Local authorities, who are responsible for the smooth flow of Washington traffic during a foreign dignitary's visit, did not express their pleasure either.
Visiting leaders usually stay at one of the hotels which are close to the White House, including the Four Seasons in Georgetown, Ritz Carlton and Willard Inter-continental.
The Pakistan Ambassador's house is located in Washington's diplomatic enclave. It is located at the bustling Massachusetts Avenue. If Imran Khan stays at the envoy's house, the road may face closures when his entourage travels to hold meetings with other leaders and officials. This may lead to traffic snarls right up to downtown, which houses hundreds of offices.
Hotels usually have all arrangements for VVIPs, including halls to hold community events and space for meetings with other dignitaries. They also include separate elevators, exit and entry points which ease the US Secret Service's job in protecting the visiting leader.
The other option that the Pakistani Prime Minister has is to stay with an affluent Pakistani-American in District Columbia's suburbs. However, this option too entails travelling to Washington every morning to hold meetings at the Pakistan embassy.