India-Pakistan Tensions 'Less Heated' Now, Says Donald Trump, Reiterates Mediation Offer

The relationship between India and Pakistan is “less heated” now than what was two weeks ago, United States President Donald Trump has said, reiterating his offer to help the two South-Asian neighbours only if both of them want. “India and Pakistan are having a conflict over Kashmir as you know. I think (it) is a little bit less heated right now than (what) was two weeks ago,” Trump told reporters at the White House on Monday.

Tensions between India and Pakistan spiked after India abrogated provisions of Article 370 of the Constitution, evoking strong reactions from Pakistan.

“I get along with both countries very well,” Trump said while responding to a question on his assessment of the situation between India and Pakistan. “I am willing to help them if they want. They know that. That (offer) is out there.”

Earlier, at G7 Summit Trump had said he feels India and Pakistan should resolve the Kashmir issue “themselves”. Modi also categorically rejected any scope for third party mediation between India and Pakistan on Kashmir, saying the two countries can discuss and resolve all issues bilaterally and "we don't want to trouble any third country."

"I have very good relationship with both the gentlemen (Modi and Pakistan Imran Khan) and I'm here. I think they can do it (resolve the issue) themselves," Trump said, adding: "We are talking about trade, we're talking about military and many different things. We had some great discussions, we were together last night for dinner and I learned a lot about India."

India has categorically told the international community that the scrapping of Article 370 was an internal matter and also advised Pakistan to accept the reality.

"All the issues between India and Pakistan are of bilateral in nature, and we don't want to trouble any third country. We can discuss and resolve these issues bilaterally," Modi said.

Modi had said India and Pakistan were together before 1947 and he was confident that the two neighbours can discuss their problems and solve them.

HIGHLIGHTS

• The relationship between India and Pakistan is “less heated” now.
• “I get along with both countries very well,” Trump said.
• Tensions between India and Pakistan spiked after India abrogated provisions of Article 370.