Donald Trump's Business Ventures in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Turkey Raise Concerns
Trump's Renewed Focus on Business Ties
Former U.S. President Donald Trump is back in the spotlight, this time due to his business interests linked to countries often viewed as adversaries of India, namely Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Turkey. Trump and his close associates are exploring potential multi-billion dollar deals in these nations, prompting questions about whether these ventures are purely commercial or if there are underlying political motives.
Recent Developments in Pakistan
Recently, Trump's associates struck a deal in the cryptocurrency sector with Pakistan. Gentry Beach, a college friend of Trump Jr., visited Pakistan in January, where he was hosted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. During this visit, they discussed significant investment opportunities in the country's mineral, oil, gas, and real estate sectors.
Engagements in Bangladesh and Turkey
Following Pakistan, Beach traveled to Bangladesh, where he met with the chief advisor of the interim government, Muhammad Yunus. He promised substantial investments in oil, gas, defense, and real estate in Dhaka. Subsequently, he went to Turkey, where he established a joint venture in mining and energy with Terra Holding in Istanbul.
A History of Controversies
Gentry Beach and the Trump family have a history of controversies. In 2018, Beach raised significant funds for Trump's 2016 election campaign and pressured the National Security Council to lift American sanctions and advance business deals.
Plans for Pakistan as a Crypto Hub
Pakistan has entered into a cryptocurrency deal with World Liberty Financial, a company in which the Trump family holds a 60% stake. This initiative is rapidly being established under the 'Crypto Council' with the aim of making Islamabad the crypto capital of South Asia. Notably, Changpeng Zhao, the founder of Binance, has been appointed as an advisor to this council.
Timing of Deals Raises Eyebrows
While terrorist plots were being devised in Pahalgam, India, members of Trump's camp were signing multi-billion dollar deals in Turkey and Pakistan. This situation raises concerns for India regarding the deepening economic ties of Trump's family with nations that are seen as adversaries.