Islamabad: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has praised US President Donald Trump for what he described as a decisive role in helping ease tensions between Pakistan and India during last year’s military confrontation, saying Islamabad would remain grateful for Washington’s efforts to promote regional stability.
Addressing a reception organized by the US Embassy in Islamabad to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence, Sharif highlighted the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and the United States and described bilateral ties as a partnership that has evolved across multiple sectors over nearly eight decades.
During his speech, the Pakistani leader referred to the military escalation that followed the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians and triggered a sharp deterioration in relations between the two neighboring countries. He asserted that diplomatic engagement led by President Trump contributed significantly to reducing hostilities and facilitating a ceasefire understanding between Islamabad and New Delhi.
Sharif said the intervention helped prevent a wider conflict in South Asia and expressed appreciation for what he characterized as efforts to restore calm during a period of heightened regional uncertainty. He further described Trump as a leader committed to peace and credited him with helping create conditions that enabled de-escalation.
The remarks come amid continuing differences between India and Pakistan over the circumstances surrounding the ceasefire. While Trump has repeatedly maintained that his administration played a role in encouraging both sides to step back from confrontation, India has consistently stated that the understanding was reached directly through bilateral channels and has rejected suggestions of third-party mediation.
The military tensions referenced by Sharif followed India’s launch of Operation Sindoor, an operation targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir after the deadly attack in Pahalgam. The confrontation led to several days of heightened military activity before both countries announced a cessation of hostilities.
Beyond regional security issues, the Pakistani prime minister devoted a significant portion of his address to broader US-Pakistan relations. He noted that the United States was among the earliest countries to recognize Pakistan following its independence in 1947 and emphasized the depth of cooperation that has developed over the decades.
According to Sharif, collaboration between the two nations extends well beyond security matters and includes trade, investment, agriculture, education, healthcare, energy development, scientific research, and cultural exchanges. He said these areas continue to provide a strong foundation for future engagement and mutual growth.
The prime minister also commended Trump’s leadership style, describing it as energetic and decisive. He argued that Washington’s current approach to international affairs reflects a determination to pursue strategic objectives while remaining engaged in efforts aimed at promoting peace and economic progress.
On regional diplomacy, Sharif claimed that Pakistan has been playing a constructive role in facilitating communication efforts involving the United States and Iran. He expressed hope that ongoing diplomatic initiatives would contribute to long-term stability and reduce tensions in the broader region.
The Pakistani leader additionally acknowledged the contribution of Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir in supporting diplomatic efforts and maintaining engagement on regional security matters. He expressed optimism that continued dialogue among stakeholders could pave the way for durable peace.
Representing the United States at the event, Charge d’Affaires Natalie Baker reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to maintaining strong relations with Pakistan. She described the two countries as strategic partners whose relationship is built on mutual respect, shared interests, and cooperation across a wide range of fields.
Baker noted that the US administration remains focused on practical outcomes in its engagement with Pakistan, including crisis management, economic cooperation, and efforts to strengthen regional stability. She emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to address common challenges and expand opportunities for both nations.
The reception served as both a celebration of America’s 250-year history and a platform for highlighting the current state of US-Pakistan relations. As diplomatic engagement continues on regional and global issues, officials from both countries signaled their intention to maintain dialogue and deepen cooperation in areas of shared interest.
Sharif’s comments are likely to attract attention across the region, particularly given the differing narratives surrounding last year’s ceasefire and the continuing debate over the role of international actors in South Asian diplomacy. Nevertheless, the event underscored Islamabad’s efforts to strengthen ties with Washington while positioning itself as an active participant in regional peace initiatives.