Washington, D.C. – U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the United States is ready to support India and Pakistan in strengthening their trade relations, following a recent ceasefire agreement that he claims his administration helped broker.
Speaking at an event at the White House, Trump highlighted trade as a key factor behind the de-escalation of hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
“Trade is a big reason why they stopped fighting,” Trump told reporters. “We’re in communication with both governments, and we’re offering any assistance necessary to ensure peace and economic growth in the region.”
The ceasefire comes after months of heightened tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir, a disputed territory that has long been a flashpoint between India and Pakistan. The recent agreement marks a rare moment of cooperation, and diplomatic observers have welcomed the U.S. offer to facilitate dialogue, especially on economic cooperation.
Officials in both New Delhi and Islamabad have expressed cautious optimism, though analysts warn that the ceasefire’s long-term success will depend on sustained political will and mutual trust.
Trump’s remarks signal a renewed U.S. interest in acting as a mediator in South Asia, a role Washington has occasionally assumed in past decades. He did not elaborate on the specific measures the U.S. might take, but sources within the administration suggest discussions may include trade incentives, joint development projects, and increased regional economic integration.
The White House has not confirmed whether a trilateral trade dialogue or summit is being planned, but diplomatic sources indicate that preliminary talks are underway through backchannel communications.
The U.S. State Department also issued a statement praising the ceasefire and calling it “an important step toward long-term stability and prosperity in the region.”