Trump praised both India and Pakistan for averting the war.
Washington: US President Donald Trump said he was “honoured” to meet Pakistan Army chief General Asim Munir as he hosted him at the White House on June 18.
During their discussion, the escalating Iran-Israel conflict and broader regional stability were central topics. Speaking to reporters, President Trump stated that he believes Pakistan, with its deeper understanding of Iran, could play a key role in de-escalating the situation.
When asked whether he had discussed the Israel-Iran conflict with the Pakistani Army Chief, he responded, "Yeah. Well, they know Iran very well -- better than most -- and they are not happy about anything. They're bad with Israel. Maybe they know Iran better. They see what's going on."
The first such meeting between a US President and the head of Pakistan’s military was held without accompanying senior civilian officials. Trump thanked Munir for not entering the war with India, calling both nations “very smart” for avoiding conflict.
"I wanted to thank him for not going into the war and ending it...we are working on a trade deal with India and also with Pakistan... I am so happy. Two very smart people decided not to keep going with the war. Those are two big nuclear powers. I was honored to meet him today," he said.
The meeting, held in the Cabinet Room, was followed by a formal luncheon. A White House spokesperson confirmed that the event was arranged to recognize Pakistan’s contribution to peace in South Asia. Both leaders also discussed future economic ties.
Munir credited Trump with preventing what could have become a nuclear war between India and Pakistan during their brief military standoff in May, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said.
