Mediation, Kashmir & trade: Delhi rebuts Trump claims point by point

New Delhi, May 14, 2025 — The Indian government has strongly dismissed recent remarks made by former U.S. President Donald Trump. His claims about Kashmir, trade talks, and a need for outside mediation were called factually incorrect and diplomatically misleading. India stressed that Kashmir is strictly a bilateral matter and not open to third-party involvement.

Trump, during a public event in the U.S., said India had asked him to mediate the Kashmir dispute. He also accused India of being tough in trade negotiations. He claimed that the U.S. could help ease tensions in the region.

India Firmly Rejects Mediation Claim

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a prompt response. It made clear that India has never requested any external mediation on Kashmir.

“We have always maintained that all outstanding issues with Pakistan are to be discussed bilaterally and peacefully, in accordance with the Simla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration,” said MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi.

India has long rejected any third-party role in its disputes with Pakistan, especially concerning Jammu & Kashmir. The region is a highly sensitive area, and suggestions of external involvement are seen as interference in India’s internal affairs.

Kashmir Is a Sovereign Issue

Officials emphasized that Kashmir is an integral part of India. Its status is not negotiable. Any idea of international mediation is against India’s constitutional and diplomatic principles.

Sources also pointed out that Trump’s remarks were either misunderstood or misrepresented. No official request for mediation was ever made to him or his administration.

India Pushes Back on Trade Criticism

Trump also accused India of imposing unfair tariffs and being hard to deal with on trade matters. In response, Indian officials highlighted the country’s commitment to fair and balanced trade.

“India has always advocated for fair and equitable trade practices,” said a senior Commerce Ministry official. “It’s incorrect to single out India for being rigid, especially when trade talks involve mutual interests.”

Trade tensions did rise during Trump’s presidency, especially after the U.S. removed India’s GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) benefits in 2019. Still, both countries have continued talks to resolve these issues peacefully.

Understanding the Political Timing

Analysts believe Trump’s remarks may be aimed at gaining attention ahead of the U.S. elections. India, however, is careful not to get involved in political matters of other nations.

“The Indian government is aware of global political dynamics,” said Dr. Pratap Menon, a foreign policy expert. “But when national interests are misrepresented, a strong rebuttal is necessary.”

India’s Vision for Regional Peace

India supports peace in South Asia but insists that it must come through direct talks with Pakistan. It has often said that true dialogue is only possible if cross-border terrorism ends.

After India revoked Article 370 in August 2019, Pakistan tried to raise the Kashmir issue globally. But India managed to counter that narrative through consistent diplomacy.

Conclusion

India’s rejection of Trump’s claims is not just about setting the record straight. It is about upholding its sovereign policies and maintaining a consistent diplomatic line. On matters like Kashmir and trade, India continues to stand firm — confident, clear, and committed to bilateral engagement.