In a wide-ranging interview with Fox News, U.S. President Donald J. Trump once again expressed strong confidence in Pakistan, lauding its key role in preventing nuclear conflict, promoting regional peace, and offering trade over war as a symbol of mature global leadership.
“Pakistan chose trade over war—that’s real leadership,” Trump stated, crediting Islamabad for defusing high-stakes tensions in South Asia, particularly during moments when nuclear confrontation with India seemed imminent.
Trump acknowledged that Pakistan’s diplomatic approach and peace-centric policies helped steer the region away from the brink of disaster.
“We were close to something very, very bad in South Asia,” he admitted. “Pakistan prevented that. They deserve credit.”
Praise for Dialogue and Diplomacy
Trump emphasized his positive engagement with Pakistani leadership, recalling past conversations and mutual commitments to peace and development.
“We had tremendous conversations with Pakistan. Great people, very smart. I won’t forget that,” he said, underscoring his administration’s efforts to strengthen bilateral ties with Islamabad.
He also praised Pakistan’s offer of trade and economic partnership in response to heightened tensions, calling it a gesture of peace that demonstrated responsible statecraft.
Confidence in the Pakistani People and Economy
Going further, Trump heaped praise on the Pakistani nation, describing its people as “intelligent” and its manufacturing as “high-quality.”
“Pakistan makes quality products. Their people are smart, hardworking. You can see the potential.”
A Blow to India’s War Rhetoric
Trump’s remarks also served as a diplomatic rebuke of India’s aggressive posturing under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. According to defense analysts, Trump’s repeated praise for Pakistan, now for the third consecutive time, contrasts sharply with India’s war-driven narratives, especially during moments of military escalation.
“Modi’s war rhetoric backfired on the global stage,” analysts observed. “Trump’s recognition of Pakistan’s peace efforts is a blow to India’s diplomatic credibility.”
Analysts further noted that while India tried to rally international sympathy, its hawkish stance only earned criticism. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s calm and calculated diplomacy gained global approval.
Additionally, Trump had previously discouraged Apple’s CEO from investing in India, a move that was seen as an economic jolt for New Delhi, highlighting broader dissatisfaction with India’s handling of regional and economic affairs.
A Call for Continued Engagement
Trump’s latest endorsement reaffirms Pakistan’s growing international credibility as a peaceful, responsible, and trade-focused nation. As the region continues to grapple with instability, his comments could bolster Islamabad’s case for stronger global partnerships.
“Pakistan made bold decisions for peace. That matters. The world should see it,” Trump concluded.
