Vance, Rubio Played Key Roles in India-Pakistan Deescalation: Trump Nominee
During Paul Kapur’s Senate confirmation hearing, he credited U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio for their roles in de-escalating the recent India-Pakistan crisis. He outlined plans to strengthen U.S.-India relations and address security cooperation with Pakistan while emphasizing the importance of regional stability involving neighboring countries. Senator James E. Risch reiterated the necessity of peace between India and Pakistan, highlighting shared U.S. national security interests.
In a recent Senate confirmation hearing, Paul Kapur, President Trump’s nominee for Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, highlighted the invaluable roles played by U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in advocating for restraint during the recent India-Pakistan crisis.
Kapur remarked, “As somebody from the outside looking in, it appeared to me that the Secretary [of State] and the Vice President were actively engaged in using their good offices to encourage de-escalation.” He attributed the de-escalation efforts to their influence, noting that ultimately, the two nations chose to step back from escalating tensions.
The backdrop to this discussion was the increased tensions following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which India blamed on Pakistan-based groups. Kapur, a current professor at the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School, responded to inquiries from lawmakers, including those who had recent discussions with delegates from both countries in Washington.
Senator Chris Van Hollen pointed out that while President Trump and Secretary Rubio have claimed credit for facilitating a ceasefire, the Indian government has denied any American mediation role. However, a fragile ceasefire is now in effect. Van Hollen referenced a statement made by Secretary Rubio on May 10, where he expressed satisfaction at the agreement of both governments to a ceasefire and the initiation of talks on a variety of issues.
Kapur acknowledged that the U.S. and India have numerous shared interests such as ensuring a free Indo-Pacific region, countering China, and enhancing bilateral trade relations. He stated, “If confirmed, I’ll work to further advance U.S.-India relations and put our partnership on course to realize its tremendous promise.” He added that he would also seek to foster security cooperation with Pakistan, focusing on areas beneficial to U.S. interests.
Moreover, Kapur emphasized that avoiding a costly conflict in South Asia was partly due to the efforts by Vice President Vance and Secretary Rubio. If confirmed, he intends to continue promoting U.S. security interests in the region alongside efforts toward peace and stability while combating terrorism.
Kapur also highlighted the significance of regional countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Maldives, and Bhutan for stability in the Indo-Pacific. He proposed that enhanced U.S. cooperation with these nations could counterbalance China’s influence while expanding trade opportunities. Regarding Afghanistan, Kapur noted intentions to support initiatives aimed at bringing home American individuals detained wrongfully.
Senator James E. Risch, Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, commented on the serious implications of the India-Pakistan conflict, reiterating the necessity for continued U.S. counterterrorism cooperation throughout the region. He stated, “The U.S. shares national security interests with both countries and we need peace between them.”
The testimony of Paul Kapur during his Senate confirmation hearing underscored the importance of U.S. diplomatic efforts in South Asia, particularly amid the recent India-Pakistan tensions. The roles of Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio were noted as significant in achieving a fragile ceasefire. Kapur’s commitment to fostering U.S.-India relations and promoting peace in the region reflects ongoing U.S. interests in countering terrorism and enhancing stability.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
