Trump calls Diwali ‘a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness’ at the WH
By Anjali Sharma
WASHINGTON – US President Donald Trump on Wednesday hosted a special Diwali celebration at the White House, where he lit a traditional diya in the Oval Office and extended his “warmest wishes” to the people of India.
He called the festival “a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness,” Trump said he “loves the people of India” and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “a great person.”
“It’s knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. During Diwali, revelers 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 and to work with diligence and to always give thanks for our many blessings,” he added.
The event was attended by Indian Ambassador to the US Vinay Kwatra, newly appointed US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, FBI Director Kash Patel, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and prominent Indian-American business leaders, according to the White House press release.
He was speaking to reporters during the event Trump revealed he had spoken to PM Modi that day. “We had a great conversation. We talked about trade he’s very interested in that and we’re working on some great deals between our countries,” he said.
He also reiterated claims that Modi had assured him of reduced oil imports from Russia and took credit for defusing tensions between India and Pakistan in May.
“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, Ukraine. And as you know, they’re not going to be buying too much oil. So, they’ve got it way back, and they’re continuing to cut it way back,” he emphasized.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked President Trump for his phone call and warm Diwali greetings.
Modi wrote in a post on X, “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.”
