WASHINGTON, D.C. — A prominent delegation from Pakistan, led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, son of former Foreign Minister Asif Ali Zardari, commended President Donald Trump for facilitating a ceasefire with India.
In remarks made at the Pakistani Embassy, Bhutto Zardari addressed the Indian government’s recent denial of Trump’s involvement, implying that it was, perhaps, a bit embarrassing to claim he merely “stole” credit for the deal.
The Pakistani delegation, which included several lawmakers, engaged with various think tanks, security officials, and parliamentary members this week, coinciding with a visit from Indian officials to Washington, D.C.
The violence between the two neighboring countries peaked in early May, following India’s backing of a terrorist attack on civilians in the Kashmir region. Reports indicated that India targeted terrorist sites in Pakistan in retaliation after a tragic incident where tourists were killed in April.
On May 10, Trump announced a “complete and immediate ceasefire” after what reportedly were lengthy discussions mediated by the U.S.
During this time, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Mithri stated that both nations were in high-level contacts to ensure all military actions ceased by a specified time.
However, some Indian publications later suggested that it was New Delhi that initiated the idea of halting cross-border hostilities. Bhutto Zardari, in response, remarked that he felt somewhat embarrassed about the situation and referenced conversations that had taken place regarding the agreement.
Pakistan’s Senator Masdick Malik, representing former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and currently serving as Energy Minister, expressed that Trump’s involvement had not received adequate praise. He claimed that Trump’s intervention was significant, albeit he seemed unaware of its full impact.
Malik compared the situation to the current Russia-Ukraine conflict, implying that the United States has a crucial role to play. Both he and Bhutto Zardari acknowledged that the U.S. efforts should be recognized, emphasizing the lengthy discussions held to reach the ceasefire.
They expressed concern that any attempts by India to evade this commitment might undermine Trump’s larger vision for peace in the region.
