Washington: US President Donald Trump heaped praise on India, referring to it as a “great country” led by his “very good friend,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a global summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. His remarks, made in the context of an agreement to end the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, underscored his support for both India and Pakistan, even as he linked them to his broader diplomatic efforts in the region.
Trump, addressing world leaders at the summit after the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, said, “India is a great country, led by a very good friend of mine. He’s done a fantastic job.” Without directly naming Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trump’s words were clearly directed at the Indian leader. He added that he believes India and Pakistan will eventually “get along very well,” looking towards Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, who was present at the gathering.
The US President’s comments about the relationship between the two South Asian neighbors were notable, as he suggested that peace between India and Pakistan could be achieved, despite the long-standing tension between the countries. “I think India and Pakistan will get along very well,” Trump stated, drawing attention to his past efforts in trying to mediate conflicts in the region.
Trump has repeatedly claimed credit for resolving conflicts, including the ongoing tension between India and Pakistan, which he previously stated he had brokered a ceasefire for. In May 2020, he had announced via social media that India and Pakistan had agreed to a “complete and immediate” ceasefire under US mediation. However, the Indian government has consistently maintained that the ceasefire was a result of direct discussions between the military officials of the two nations, not US involvement.
On Monday, Trump also took the opportunity to praise Pakistani leadership, acknowledging Prime Minister Sharif and Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, for their efforts towards peace. “Peace has been established in West Asia because of President Trump’s tireless efforts,” Sharif remarked, as the leaders discussed regional security.
Trump’s comments on India and Pakistan are part of his broader narrative of being a peacemaker. He has often emphasized his role in resolving multiple international conflicts, including seven earlier disputes, which he now claims to have increased to eight, following the recent ceasefire in Gaza. His involvement in the region, however, has been met with skepticism in India, where leaders have downplayed his role in facilitating the India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement.
While Trump’s optimism about the future of India-Pakistan relations might resonate with his diplomatic ambitions, the reality on the ground remains complex, with both nations continuing to maintain strict positions on a variety of contentious issues. Nonetheless, Trump’s comments further reflect his belief in his capacity to broker peace in some of the world’s most difficult diplomatic challenges.
As the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas marks a rare moment of agreement in the Middle East, Trump’s focus on India and Pakistan reminds the global community of the delicate balance of power in South Asia, and the continued efforts—whether directly or indirectly—aimed at fostering peace and cooperation between two of the world’s most populous nations.
