Shehbaz Sharif Expresses Gratitude to Trump for Ceasefire Efforts with India

Pakistan's Prime Minister Acknowledges US Support

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed Pakistan's enduring gratitude towards former US President Donald Trump for his pivotal role in facilitating a ceasefire with India. This statement was made during a reception at the US Embassy, celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence.

During his address, Shehbaz characterized the relationship between Pakistan and the US as a 'true and special relationship' that has flourished over nearly eight decades.

He referenced the four-day military conflict that erupted last year, which was ignited by a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in 26 fatalities. The Prime Minister credited Trump's intervention as crucial in halting the violence.

"In the wake of India's unprovoked aggression following the Pahalgam incident, it was President Trump's decisive intervention that led to a ceasefire on May 10 of last year," he stated.

"We will always be thankful to President Trump for restoring peace in South Asia and safeguarding millions of lives. He will be remembered as a man of peace in this context," Shehbaz added.

Following the Pahalgam attack, India initiated Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Trump has consistently asserted that he played a significant role in brokering peace between India and Pakistan after the military conflict. However, India has maintained that any agreements were made directly between the two nations, dismissing claims of third-party mediation.

Shehbaz also praised Trump's 'unique' leadership style, noting that he infused 'energy and resolve' into America's international engagements and interests.

Under Trump's 'bold and visionary leadership', the US 'continues to inspire confidence and dynamism while promoting peace, progress, and prosperity', according to the Prime Minister.

Reflecting on the historical ties, Shehbaz pointed out that the US was one of the first nations to recognize Pakistan after its establishment in 1947, emphasizing collaboration in various sectors including security, trade, investment, agriculture, science, education, health, and energy.

"Our relationship is genuine and special, spanning nearly eight decades and covering cooperation in security, counter-terrorism, trade, investment, agriculture, science, education, health, energy, and people-to-people exchanges," he remarked.

On the topic of regional diplomacy, Shehbaz mentioned Pakistan's role in facilitating dialogue between the US and Iran, expressing gratitude to Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir for his contributions to ongoing peace initiatives.

"As I speak, these efforts are ongoing with the support of both Iran and the United States, and we hope to achieve lasting peace soon," he stated.

In her remarks, US Charge d'Affaires Natalie Baker referred to Pakistan and the US as 'true strategic partners', highlighting that their relationship is built on mutual respect, aligned interests, and a shared vision for security and prosperity.

She noted that Trump's approach towards Pakistan had been 'direct, personal, and consequential', aimed at delivering results, managing crises, and seizing opportunities.