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News18
2 days ago
- Politics
- News18
Who Is Paul Kapur? Trump's Indian-Origin Pick As Key Diplomat For South Asian Affairs
Last Updated: Paul Kapur is a South Asia security expert and professor at the US Naval Postgraduate School, known for his work on nuclear policy and regional strategy. Paul Kapur, US President Donald Trump's nominee for South Asia, said India and the United States share common interests like a free and open Indo-Pacific, which is not dominated by China, along with expanding trade, tech sharing, and access to energy. Speaking at an event, Trump's Indian-origin nominee also said that he would 'pursue security cooperation where it is beneficial to the US interest, seeking opportunities for bilateral collaboration in trade and investment". 'We will promote long-standing security interests with India, Pakistan through the pursuit of peace and stability and fight against terrorism," Kapur said. WHO IS PAUL KAPUR? Security expert Paul Kapur was nominated by Trump as the Assistant Secretary of State for South Asian Affairs in February this year. If his nomination is confirmed, Kapur would succeed Donald Lu, who completed his term on January 17, 2025. Paul Kapur is known for his extensive research on South Asian security and nuclear policy, and works as a professor in the Department of National Security Affairs at the US Naval Postgraduate School. Additionally, Paul also played a key role in shaping US foreign policy on South and Central Asia. Kapur studied for his BA at Amherst College and did his PhD at the University of Chicago. According to some media reports, Kapur has authored multiple influential publications on South Asian security, nuclear policy, and international relations. His books include Jihad as Grand Strategy: Islamist Militancy, National Security, and the Pakistani State (Oxford University Press, 2016), Dangerous Deterrent: Nuclear Weapons Proliferation and Conflict in South Asia (Stanford University Press, 2007), India, Pakistan, and the Bomb: Debating Nuclear Stability in South Asia (Columbia University Press, 2010), and The Challenges of Nuclear Security: US and Indian Perspectives (Palgrave MacMillan, 2024). Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from geopolitics to diplomacy and global trends. Stay informed with the latest world news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated!


Express Tribune
15-02-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Trump picks Paul Kapur to succeed Donald Lu as South Asia envoy
Listen to article US President Donald Trump has nominated Paul Kapur, an expert on South Asian security and nuclear issues, as Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia. Paul Kapur will succeed Donald Lu, who oversaw the region's diplomatic affairs under the Joe Biden administration. Paul Kapur, a professor at the US Naval Postgraduate School, is widely known for his work on Indo-Pacific security and US-India relations. He previously served on the State Department's Policy Planning Staff during Trump's first term, where he played a role in shaping US strategy in South Asia. The appointment signals a potential shift in Washington's approach towards the region, particularly in its policies on India and Pakistan. Paul Kapur has long advocated for stronger US-India strategic ties and has been critical of Pakistan's security policies. His views suggest a tougher stance on Islamabad, contrasting with past efforts to maintain a balance between the two South Asian neighbours. As an academic, Paul Kapur has authored several books and research papers on South Asian security, including Jihad as Grand Strategy: Islamist Militancy, National Security, and the Pakistani State and Dangerous Deterrent: Nuclear Weapons Proliferation and Conflict in South Asia. His work examines nuclear security, militancy, and regional conflicts, and he has contributed to policy discussions through the US-India Track 1.5 dialogue on defence cooperation. Paul Kapur's nomination follows a series of appointments of Indian-origin officials in the Trump administration. Other recent appointees include Kash Patel as FBI Director and Sriram Krishnan as White House Policy Adviser on Artificial Intelligence. The Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, which Paul Kapur would oversee, is responsible for shaping US policy towards key regional nations, including India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. His confirmation could reinforce India's status as a top strategic partner for Washington while signalling a more cautious approach to Pakistan. Paul Kapur's confirmation hearing before the Senate is expected in the coming weeks.