Paul Kapur, US President Donald Trump’s nominee for Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, plans to prioritize security cooperation with Pakistan—only where it aligns with American interests. Speaking to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Kapur also emphasized expanding US-Pakistan trade and investment links.
Emphasis on Stability and Shared Interests
Kapur pledged to seek areas of mutual benefit in working with Pakistan. He made it clear that his approach would favor American priorities. “If confirmed, I will pursue security cooperation with Pakistan where it is in America’s interest,” he stated. His comments followed recent regional tensions that nearly led to conflict between India and Pakistan.
India-Pakistan Crisis Averted
Kapur credited intense diplomacy by US Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio for easing recent hostilities. The April 22 attack in Indian-occupied Kashmir, which killed 26, triggered a severe backlash. India blamed Pakistan without offering proof. Islamabad denied involvement and called for an investigation.
India responded with aggressive steps—suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, halting trade, and closing border crossings. Pakistan mirrored these actions, sealing its airspace and escalating military responses. Air raids and missile strikes followed, causing dozens of casualties.
The US stepped in, brokering a ceasefire announced on May 10. Trump later hinted at long-term peace efforts, stating, “After a thousand years, maybe a solution on Kashmir can be found.”
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Background and Criticism
Kapur, who previously served on the State Department’s Policy Planning Staff, is known for his academic work. However, some of his writings—such as Dangerous Deterrent—have faced criticism in Pakistan for appearing to frame it as the primary destabilizer in South Asia.
Still, Kapur stressed diplomacy over doctrine. He vowed to help bring home detained Americans in Afghanistan and prevent the country from becoming a terrorism hub again. The Senate will vote on his nomination later this month.
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