ISLAMABAD: Paul Kapur, President Donald Trump’s nominee for US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, has voiced strong support for deepening cooperation with Pakistan.
During his Senate confirmation hearing on Wednesday, Kapur emphasized the need to boost security, trade, and investment ties between the US and Pakistan while promoting peace in the volatile South Asian region.
Kapur, an academic of Indian descent, acknowledged the recent military tensions between Pakistan and India, noting the region narrowly avoided a major conflict.
He praised the diplomatic efforts of US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in defusing the 87-hour-long cross-border clashes triggered by a terrorist attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
The nominee stressed that counterterrorism remains a key priority alongside building stronger bilateral relations.
Focus on Afghanistan and Regional Stability
Kapur reiterated his commitment to preventing Afghanistan from becoming a “terrorism launchpad,” underscoring the US’s role in ensuring the safe return of detained Americans.
His nomination arrives amid renewed US efforts to mediate the long-standing Kashmir dispute, with President Trump expressing willingness to facilitate peace talks.
Pakistan has welcomed this offer, while India continues to reject external mediation, calling Kashmir a bilateral issue.
Significant Shift in US Policy
If confirmed, Kapur’s approach would mark a notable departure from his predecessor Donald Lu, whose tenure was clouded by controversies and accusations from former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Kapur’s statements signal a potential reset in US South Asia policy, prioritizing diplomacy, stability, and constructive engagement with Pakistan.
