Israel-Palestine Peace deal in the Middle East!
Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, Oct 13 (EFE).—
President Donald Trump joked about disagreements with Spain over defense spending during his closing remarks at Monday’s peace summit in Egypt, directly addressing Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who was present at the event.
“Are you working to convince him about the GDP thing?” Trump said, referring to his push for countries to dedicate 5% of their GDP to defense spending. “We’re getting close, you’re doing a fantastic job,” he added, while scanning the crowd and asking, “Spain? Where is Spain?”
The exchange brought a lighter tone to an otherwise solemn ceremony marking the end of the Gaza war.
Trump’s remarks came as he congratulated each of the more than 30 world leaders who attended the summit in Sharm el-Sheikh for their roles in brokering peace in the Middle East.
While maintaining a humorous tone, the US president’s comments echoed his long-standing criticism of NATO members that fail to meet defense spending targets.
Trump has repeatedly called out Spain in recent months for what he described as an insufficient commitment to the alliance’s financial obligations.
Trump’s friendly interaction with Sánchez contrasted with his earlier, more combative remarks, suggesting that NATO members who “don’t pay their share” should face consequences, even hinting at expulsion.
“Spain is a great country. Pedro’s a good guy, we’ll work it out,” Trump added, smiling as the audience laughed.
The Spanish prime minister did not respond publicly during the event, though diplomatic sources indicated the exchange was received “in a cordial spirit.” EFE
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