The founder and former prime minister of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), who is incarcerated in Pakistan, should be released immediately, according to Richard Grenell, the special envoy-designate of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.

Grenell recently discussed the remarkable parallels between the political trajectories of Donald Trump and the founder of the PTI, presenting both as out-of-the-box leaders. “Despite being accused for political reasons, both presidents were well liked by the general public. The PTI founder faces similar allegations to those made against President Trump, he said.

Grenell said that Marco Rubio, the candidate for Secretary of State, is preparing for in-depth discussions on Pakistan’s missile program as part of the new administration’s goals. He emphasized the need of taking a unique stance against nuclear-capable countries and that the Trump administration will pursue a very different course of action than its predecessors.

“The Biden administration failed to make meaningful progress in four years and is now rushing to achieve results in its final days,” Grenell said.

He expressed optimism for renewed collaboration in tackling regional and global issues while reminiscing about Trump’s previous term and praising the strong connection between the Trump administration and Pakistan’s leadership at the time.

Grenell wasn’t shy in denouncing recent remarks made by Matthew Miller, a spokeswoman for the State Department. “Rhetorical complexity detracts from the main point. The former prime minister of Pakistan’s release and the pursuit of justice must continue to be the key priorities,” he said.

The Trump administration is dedicated to maintaining democratic principles and promoting just government in Pakistan, he said. Justice is undermined, and the incorrect message is sent by the PTI founder’s ongoing incarceration. He must be released,” Grenell said.

This firm posture by the next U.S. administration foreshadows what may turn out to be a turning point in U.S.-Pakistan ties under President Trump’s direction and indicates a renewed emphasis on Pakistan’s political situation.