Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) faced a diplomatic setback in Karachi as the city’s traders formally declined a scheduled meeting with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, sending a letter to PTI leaders notifying them of the decision, sources said on Thursday.

CM Afridi will arrive on Friday on a four-day visit to Sindh, spending three days in Karachi.

His itinerary included planned engagements with PTI leaders and traders, starting with a visit to the party’s headquarters, followed by a meeting with business representatives.

He was also scheduled to address the Karachi Press Club in the evening and attend several PTI-hosted dinners and public events, including rallies across the city and visits to key localities.

Party sources said CM Afridi was expected to meet the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), but traders first issued an invitation and later withdrew it, citing concerns.

Sources said that the Chamber had formally communicated its decision in writing to PTI leader Haleem Adil Sheikh.

Separately, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, commenting on Afridi’s visit, said the city welcomed him and there should be no disruptions.

“He is welcome to visit, attend Justice House or the Press Club. We will ensure hospitality personally, but no chaos should be created in the city,” he said.

Wahab also offered to host Afridi for local delicacies, including nihari from Javed Idris and karhai from Shahin Shinwari.

Despite the setback with traders, PTI leaders plan to continue CM Afridi’s engagements in Karachi, including public rallies, visits to key neighborhoods such as Gulistan-e-Johar, Shah Faisal Colony, Malir, and Keamari, and a scheduled address at the Karachi Bar.