Following President Trump’s suggestion that India and Pakistan “go out to dinner” to resolve their disputes, the US State Department has publicly stated its support for direct communication between the two nuclear-armed nations.

President Trump, speaking at a Saudi-US investment forum in Riyadh, highlighted his role in brokering a weekend ceasefire between India and Pakistan, urging both countries to build upon this progress. 

“I said, ‘fellas, come on, let’s make a deal. Let’s do some trading. Let’s not trade nuclear missiles, let’s trade the things that you make so beautifully’,” Trump said.

He further suggested a more informal approach, adding, “They’re actually getting along. Maybe we can even get them together, Marco, where they go out and have a nice dinner together,” addressing Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

In Washington, State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Piggott emphasized the US focus on encouraging direct engagement between India and Pakistan. He welcomed the ceasefire and commended both prime ministers for choosing peace, but declined to comment on whether Pakistan had made any commitments regarding alleged terrorist activities.

 “We also want to encourage direct communication between the parties. That is something we’ve also been clear about as well,” he added.

Tensions have slowly de-escalated between Pakistan and India since a ceasefire was achieved on May 10. The ceasefire came after Pakistan launched Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, targeting 26 Indian military sites in response to Indian missile attacks.