Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah on Friday quipped that United States President Donald Trump has taught India a “good lesson” while referring to Trump’s recent comments asking India to withdraw “unacceptable” tariffs on American goods. When asked on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s comments about terrorism and isolating Pakistan at G20 Summit in Osaka, Abdullah said, “This is not new, he always talks of terrorism. Trump has taught us a good lesson (Trump ne bhi humein acha sabak sikhaya hai). Trump has asked India to reduce tariffs. Both leaders should talk on tariffs so that our relations with the US remain good. The US should also stay away from conflict.” On the issue of reservation in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference chairman said, “Reservation is good, we are not against it. But it should not affect the reservation for other people. It is good that people living on the international border will be given reservation.” Commenting on the role of Iran in India-US relations, he said, “Iran is not a weak country, they have fought Saddam Hussein for 8 years. Iran is not foolish like Saddam that it finishes their missile. Iran has a lot of friends including India. On a question about President’s Rule in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah said, “When panchayat elections, Lok Sabha polls could be conducted in the state then the assembly elections can also be conducted in the state. It is beneficial for governance in the state that assembly elections are conducted as soon as possible.” On Amit Shah’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir, the NC Chief said, “It is good that he visited the state as he is the Home Minister. He did not speak to us regarding that as his full attention was on reviewing the security in the ahead of the Amarnath Yatra.
