Trump Highlights Role in Averting India-Pakistan Conflict
Former US President Donald Trump has claimed a pivotal role in preventing war between two nuclear-armed neighbors, India and Pakistan. Speaking in Washington, DC, Trump credited Pakistan's Army Chief General Asim Munir for helping to deescalate tensions and expressed gratitude to him directly.
A Historic Meeting at the White House
General Asim Munir was recently invited to the White House for a luncheon, where discussions reportedly highlighted the importance of peace between India and Pakistan. Trump shared that the purpose of Munir's visit was to thank him for his role in halting potential hostilities, saying, "I wanted to thank him for not going into the war and ending it."
Bilateral Trade Talks Gain Momentum
Alongside security discussions, Trump emphasized ongoing trade negotiations with both India and Pakistan. He remarked, "Prime Minister Modi just left a little while ago and we are working on trade deals with India and also Pakistan. I am so happy. Two very smart people decided not to keep going with the war. Those are two big nuclear powers."
The Bigger Picture: Preventing Nuclear Conflict
Trump underscored the gravity of the situation, reminding that India and Pakistan are both nuclear nations. He attributed the deescalation to influential figures on both sides—including Gen. Munir and Prime Minister Narendra Modi—who chose diplomacy over conflict.
Trump’s Comments in Context
Earlier, Prime Minister Modi clarified that the recent ceasefire was the result of direct military engagement between India and Pakistan rather than US intervention. Nevertheless, Trump reiterated his assertion that his interactions with both leaders helped stop the violence. He stated, "I stopped a war between Pakistan and India. I love Pakistan. Modi is a fantastic man. We’re going to make a trade deal with Modi of India. This man (Pakistan's army chief) was extremely influential in stopping it from Pakistan’s side."
Looking Ahead
These developments signal a rare moment of cooperation and dialogue between India and Pakistan, catalyzed in part by high-level diplomacy involving the United States. With trade discussions underway and conflict averted, the international community watches closely, hopeful for sustained peace in the region.
