President Donald Trump has renewed his offer to mediate between India and Pakistan on the contentious Kashmir dispute, saying he has never failed as an arbitrator.
Speaking on top of the meeting with Prime Minister Imran Khan, Trump also referred to the caveat that his mediation depends if both India and Pakistan want him to do.
“If I can help, I will certainly help,” he said. “If both (Pakistan and India) want, I am ready to do it,” Trump said as Pakistan and India engaged in a tense diplomatic fight over Kashmir at the United Nations General Assembly.
Trump, who Sunday made a joint appearance at a rally with the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Houston, noted that he has a “very good relationship” with both Modi and the Pakistani PM Khan.
Both Khan and Modi will address the UN General Assembly.
Adding to his offer to play the role of a mediator, Trump said he has never failed as an arbitrator in the past.
The U.S. president also addressed Washington’s ties with Pakistan.
“People in my position have treated Pakistan very badly.”
“I trust Pakistan but people before me didn’t, but they didn’t know what they were doing.
“I trust this gentleman right here,” he added, pointing to Imran Khan.
The Pakistani leader underlined the urgency to address the Kashmir siege – which since August 5 Indian decision to change its autonomous status – has seen worst human rights violations including torture, arrests and communication blockade.
Khan said Pakistan looks up to the United States as the most influential country to help address the crisis, fearing the situation could get much worse.
