New Delhi/Washington: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday thanked US President Donald Trump for extending warm Diwali greetings and highlighted the need for collaborative efforts between India and the United States to combat terrorism. The remarks gain significance amid increasing US engagement with Pakistan, a country often criticised for harbouring terrorists.
Modi appreciates Trump’s call and Diwali wishes
In an early morning post on social media, PM Modi said, “Thank you, President Trump, for your phone call and warm Diwali greetings. On this festival of lights, may our two great democracies continue to illuminate the world with hope and stand united against terrorism in all its forms.”
The post came shortly after Trump lit a lamp during a special Diwali event at the White House, where he spoke to reporters about his conversation with the Indian Prime Minister. Trump described Modi as a “great friend” and highlighted ongoing cooperation between the two nations in trade and regional peace.
Trump reiterates claims on India-Pakistan and Russia-Ukraine
Speaking at the White House, Trump emphasised his efforts to maintain peace in the region. He claimed, “We did talk a little while ago about let’s have no wars with Pakistan. The fact that trade was involved, I was able to talk about that. And we have no war with Pakistan and India. That was a very, very good thing.”
The US President also reiterated his assertion that PM Modi had assured him that India would reduce oil imports from Russia. “We just have a very good relationship, and he’s not going to buy much oil from Russia. He wants to see that war end as much as with Russia and Ukraine,” Trump stated.
India, however, rejected similar claims, clarifying that its energy policy prioritises safeguarding the interests of Indian consumers amid volatile global markets, without attributing any specific assurances to Trump.
Diwali celebrations at the White House
During the Diwali event, attended by the Indian Ambassador to the US Vinay Kwatra, FBI Director Kash Patel, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, newly appointed US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, and prominent Indian-American business leaders, Trump lit a diya as a symbol of the festival’s message.
He described the celebration as a “symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.” Trump added, “During Diwali, revellers recall ancient stories of enemies defeated, obstacles removed, and captives freed. The glow of the diya flame reminds us to seek the path of wisdom, to work with diligence, and to always give thanks for our many blessings.”
Indian envoy Vinay Kwatra lauded the event, saying it showcased the strength of diversity in the United States, while FBI chief Kash Patel noted that Indian Americans across the world were thrilled to witness the White House Diwali celebration and appreciate “such a profound leader.”
Significance of the message
The exchange of Diwali greetings between PM Modi and President Trump reflects the growing diplomatic and cultural ties between India and the US. Beyond the symbolic celebration of light, the conversation highlighted areas of strategic interest, including trade, regional security, and counterterrorism cooperation.