Monitoring Desk
The United States has reiterated its support for direct dialogue between Pakistan and India, following President Donald Trump’s mediation in brokering a ceasefire between the two nuclear-armed neighbours over the weekend.
Speaking at the Saudi-US Investment Forum in Riyadh, President Trump lightheartedly urged both countries to pursue diplomacy over conflict. “Fellas, come on, let’s make a deal. Let’s do some trading. Let’s not trade nuclear missiles, let’s trade the things you make so beautifully,” Trump said, without disclosing whom he had spoken to in either government.
“They’re actually getting along. Maybe we can even get them together, Marco, where they go out and have a nice dinner together,” he added, addressing US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who accompanied him to Saudi Arabia.
In Washington, State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Piggott reaffirmed US policy, saying, “We welcome the ceasefire reached between India and Pakistan this weekend and we commend both prime ministers for choosing the path of peace. We also want to encourage direct communication between the parties.”
When asked whether Pakistan had made any commitments regarding terrorism—an accusation Islamabad has consistently rejected as a pretext for Indian aggression—Piggott declined to comment. “We continue to encourage direct communication. The president has been clear on that,” he said.
Piggott avoided criticism of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stance and emphasized, “Our focus is on the ceasefire. Our focus is on encouraging direct communication.”
The spokesperson also dismissed speculation about reported radiation leaks in Pakistan, stating, “I have nothing to preview on that at this time.”
Asked whether President Trump might deserve the Nobel Peace Prize for easing South Asian tensions, Piggott responded, “The president is a peacemaker. He is also a dealmaker. When it comes to solving conflicts, the president wants to help where he can and stands ready to do so.”
The recent escalation between Pakistan and India had drawn international concern, with fears of a wider conflict. The ceasefire, reportedly brokered with the help of multiple friendly nations, marks a significant, albeit fragile, step back from the brink.
