With Pakistan's Shariff Behind Him, Trump Calls PM Modi ‘Very Good Friend’

During a recent summit in Egypt, US President Donald Trump praised India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing optimism for India-Pakistan relations. Trump highlighted his role in peace efforts and potential Nobel Prize nominations.

US President Donald Trump on Monday commended India and Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, without directly naming him, while Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stood behind him.

Speaking at a summit of world leaders at this Egyptian city after a ceasefire reached in Gaza ending the Israel-Hamas war, he remarked, "India is a great country with a good friend of mine at the top."

Trump expressed optimism about the future relations between India and Pakistan. He stated, "I think Pakistan and India are going to live very nicely together," while glancing at Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who responded with a smile. This comment came after Trump had praised Sharif and Pakistan's army chief Gen Asim Munir.

Trump's Role in Peace Efforts

Sharif acknowledged Trump's efforts in achieving peace in the Middle East, attributing it to his "untiring and relentless efforts." He mentioned that Pakistan had previously nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize for his role in halting the war between India and Pakistan and facilitating a ceasefire.

Sharif further expressed his intention to nominate Trump again for the Nobel Peace Prize. He credited Trump with "saving millions of lives not only in South Asia but also in the Middle East." This nomination highlights Trump's perceived contributions to regional stability.

Ceasefire Claims

Trump has claimed credit for resolving eight conflicts, including those between India and Pakistan. He stated he did not seek the Nobel Prize for these efforts. Previously, he mentioned resolving seven conflicts but later included the Israel-Gaza conflict as well.

Since May 10, Trump has frequently reiterated that he facilitated a "full and immediate" ceasefire between India and Pakistan after intense negotiations mediated by Washington. However, India's official stance is that this understanding was reached through direct talks between their military leaders.

Operation Sindoor

On May 7, India launched Operation Sindoor targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and areas under Pakistani control. This operation was a response to an attack on April 22 in Pahalgam that resulted in 26 civilian deaths. The conflict concluded on May 10 after four days of intense cross-border drone and missile exchanges.

The agreement to end hostilities came after significant military engagements. Both nations' Directors General of Military Operations played crucial roles in reaching this understanding. The resolution marked an important step towards easing tensions between the two countries.