‘Pakistan is not even around, our future is with India’ Questions raised in America on Trump’s closeness

New Delhi: The debate regarding America’s strategic priorities has once again intensified. While on one hand Donald Trump is in the news for his increasing closeness with the leaders of Pakistan, on the other hand American policy experts are seen taking a clear stand regarding India.

In this series, Kurt M. Campbell has clearly said that America’s long-term interests are centered in New Delhi and Pakistan has no place in this perspective. His statement has sparked a fresh debate regarding America’s foreign policy.

Big statement given at Hudson Institute

During the event organized at the Hudson Institute, Campbell said, ‘Peace and stability in South Asia has been strengthened by the close relationship between India and America. All our strategic interests are in Delhi. We do not want any problem with Pakistan, but our interest is in India only. I have no objection to the path of dialogue, but our future is linked with India.

He further said, ‘Relations with India are in ‘capital letters’, whereas Pakistan is not even mentioned in the paragraph.’

Trump’s increasing softness towards Pakistan

At the same time, Donald Trump has been seen openly praising Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir in recent times.

Trump had also mentioned these two leaders during the announcement of ceasefire on April 8. Apart from this, he also gave credit to Pakistan’s leadership for extending the ceasefire.

Pakistan praised even on Iran issue

Amidst the ongoing tension regarding Iran, Trump praised the role of Pakistan. He said, ‘Based on the fact that the Iranian government is struggling with serious internal differences and at the request of Pakistan Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, we have been asked to stop our attack on Iran until its leaders and representatives prepare a consolidated proposal.’

Pakistan tour hints

Trump indicated on April 16 that if a deal is reached with Iran, he may visit Pakistan.
He said, ‘The field marshal is very good. The Prime Minister in Pakistan is also very good, so maybe I should go. They want me.

Trump seems to be changing

Trump, who accused Pakistan of ‘lies and deception’ in his first term, now appears to have changed his stance.
His new policy started with inviting Asim Munir to the White House, after which he also praised him publicly.