PM Modi thanks Trump for Diwali wishes, calls for 'united' fight against terror
New Delhi, Oct 22
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday thanked US President Donald Trump for the Diwali greetings and expressed hope to stand united against all forms of terrorism.
While speaking to reporters during his Diwali Party at the White House, Trump said he spoke to Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday and the two sides are "working on some great deals between our countries".
"I just spoke to your Prime Minister today. We had a great conversation. We talked about trade. We talked about a lot of things, but mostly the world of trade. He's very interested in that," he said.
PM Modi also took to X and 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."
Trump hosted a special Diwali event at the White House, where he termed Prime Minister Modi "a great person" and said he loves "the people of India".
The event was attended by the Indian Ambassador to the US Vinay Kwatra, the new US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, FBI Director Kash Patel and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. Leading business leaders from the Indian diaspora were also part of the celebrations.
Trump lit the diya in the Oval Office, calling it "a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness" and extended his "warmest wishes to the people of India".
He previously asserted that he had resolved the dispute between India and Pakistan in May. India refuted this claim, stating that the ceasefire agreement was reached only after the Pakistani Army requested the Indian side to halt the offensive.
However, Trump reiterated this during the Diwali celebration.
"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," he said.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Standing united against terrorism is crucial. India has faced enough terror attacks - we need strong international cooperation. Good to see our PM taking this stand.
While I appreciate the Diwali greetings, I'm concerned about Trump's claims regarding Pakistan. India's foreign policy should be based on facts, not political statements. Our government was right to clarify the actual situation.
As someone living in the US, it's wonderful to see Indian festivals getting recognition at the highest levels. The diaspora community here really appreciates such gestures.
Trade deals are important, but let's not forget about technology transfer and job creation. Hope these discussions lead to concrete benefits for Indian manufacturing and IT sectors.
The symbolism of lighting diya in Oval Office is powerful! 🪔 It shows respect for our culture. May this light indeed bring wisdom and peace in international relations.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.