Daijiworld Media Network- Washington

Washington, Jul 31: In a dramatic shift in US trade strategy, President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced a major oil development partnership with Pakistan, suggesting that Islamabad may one day export oil to India, even as he imposed fresh tariffs on Indian goods.

Taking to Truth Social, Trump revealed that the United States has finalized a deal with Pakistan to jointly explore and develop what he termed “massive oil reserves” in the country.

“We have just concluded a deal with the country of Pakistan, whereby Pakistan and the United States will work together on developing their massive Oil Reserves. We are in the process of choosing the Oil Company that will lead this Partnership,” Trump wrote, adding, “Who knows, maybe they'll be selling oil to India someday!”

The announcement comes mere hours after Trump imposed 25% tariffs and additional penalties on Indian imports, citing the trade imbalance between the two nations and New Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian crude oil.

While the move is seen as a blow to India-US trade relations, Trump’s comments about Pakistan appear to signal an unusual pivot in American foreign policy, particularly given Islamabad’s historical links to regional terror groups and long-standing tensions with New Delhi.

The former President further noted that the White House was engaged in multiple trade talks with various nations, claiming several countries were offering to reduce tariffs to appease the US.

“We are very busy in the White House today working on Trade Deals,” he stated. “I have spoken to the leaders of many countries, all of whom want to make the United States 'extremely happy.’”

He mentioned a meeting with a South Korean trade delegation, adding that South Korea currently faces a 25% tariff but has offered concessions that will be evaluated.

Trump concluded by asserting that these international deals aim to drastically cut the US trade deficit, promising a detailed report “at the appropriate time.”

The twin moves — punishing India with tariffs while warming up to Pakistan with a lucrative oil pact — have sparked diplomatic curiosity and could have wide-ranging geopolitical implications for South Asia.