Trump Calls for Peaceful Coexistence Between Pakistan and India
CAIRO — Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again expressed hope that Pakistan and India will live like good neighbours, promoting peace and stability across South Asia. His remarks came during a joint press conference in Cairo alongside mediators involved in the recent Gaza ceasefire negotiations.
Speaking to reporters, Trump emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, saying that long-term peace between Pakistan and India was essential not only for both nations but also for the broader global community. “The world wants to see Pakistan and India as partners in progress, not rivals in conflict,” he said.
Praise for Pakistani Leadership
During the conference, Trump turned to Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and referred to him as a great leader. The comment drew smiles in the room as Sharif jokingly responded, We once shot down seven Indian planes, referencing past military tensions between the two nuclear-armed nations.
Trump also praised Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, calling him his favourite field marshal and commending his leadership and professionalism. The former president said he respected Munir’s discipline and vision in guiding Pakistan’s military during challenging times.
A History of Mediation Efforts
Speaking later aboard Air Force One, Trump recalled his previous attempts to ease tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi. He noted that during his presidency, he tried to use trade measures and tariff negotiations to encourage dialogue.
In the past, I’ve worked to reduce tensions through economic cooperation and trade diplomacy, Trump said. I believe that prosperity is the best path to peace.
The United States has long maintained a delicate balance in its relations with both South Asian nations, often urging restraint during periods of heightened military tension — particularly over the disputed Kashmir region.
Regional and Global Reactions
Trump’s latest statement has been interpreted by analysts as a positive signal toward regional stability. Observers in South Asia noted that his tone reflected a broader international desire for de-escalation between the two nuclear neighbours.
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), both India and Pakistan continue to expand their nuclear arsenals, contributing to one of the world’s most volatile security environments.
By urging dialogue and economic cooperation, Trump’s comments align with long-standing U.S. policy objectives aimed at fostering peace and development in South Asia. While his words may not signal an immediate shift in policy, they underscore the continued global interest in a stable, cooperative relationship between the two nations.
Toward a More Peaceful South Asia
As Pakistan and India face ongoing political, economic, and security challenges, calls for mutual understanding remain crucial. Analysts say that constructive engagement — through trade, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic dialogue — could pave the way for a more peaceful future in the region.
Trump’s remarks, though informal, have reignited discussion about the role of international powers in promoting reconciliation in one of the world’s most contested regions.
