Trump suggests Pakistan and India should “have nice dinner together”

US President Donald Trump’s recent remarks in Saudi Arabia have drawn global attention to the ceasefire between Pakistan and India, further amplifying the spotlight on the recent military conflict between the two South Asian neighbors.

Speaking at the Saudi-US Investment Forum in Riyadh, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in attendance, Trump reiterated his call for both countries to engage in dialogue and resolve their disputes peacefully.

Trump praised Vice President JD Vance and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio for playing their role in the de-escalation, stating that he encouraged Pakistan and India to prioritise economic cooperation over hostilities.

“I said, ‘Fellas, come on, let’s make a deal. Let’s do some trading. Let’s not trade nuclear missiles, let’s trade the things that you make so beautifully,’” Trump said, drawing smiles and applause from MBS.

Read: Ishaq Dar warns ceasefire at risk if India doesn't restore IWT

He went on to suggest a more casual gesture of reconciliation, “They’re actually getting along. Maybe we can even get them together, Marco, where they go out and have a nice dinner together.”

While Trump did not provide specific details about which leaders he had spoken to in India and Pakistan, or when further negotiations might be held, he praised both nations’ leadership, calling them “very powerful and smart.”

It is worth noting that on May 10, Pakistan launched Operation Bunyanum Marsoos (Iron Wall) in retaliation to Indian aggression.

Read more: Pakistan, India agree to ceasefire after US offered trade ties: Trump

The operation reportedly targeted and destroyed several Indian military installations, including the Udhampur, Pathankot, and Adampur airbases, various airfields, as well as BrahMos missile storage sites and the S-400 missile defense system.

Later that same day, Trump announced on Truth Social that both Pakistan and India had agreed to an “full and immediate ceasefire,” signaling a potential thaw in hostilities.