PM Modi thanks US President Trump for Diwali greetings, highlights strong India-US ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his gratitude to United States President Donald Trump for his Diwali wishes after the two leaders spoke over the phone on the occasion of the festival of lights.

In a post shared on X on Wednesday, PM Modi appreciated President Trump’s gesture and highlighted the strong democratic bond between India and the United States.

“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 Prime Minister wrote.

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.@realDonaldTrump @POTUS

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 22, 2025

President Trump, who celebrated Diwali at the White House on Tuesday (local time), conveyed his greetings to Indians and Indian-Americans. During his address, Trump praised PM Modi, referring to him as a “great person” and “a great friend,” while noting the strength of bilateral cooperation in trade and regional stability.

“Let me extend our warmest wishes to the people of India. I just spoke to your Prime Minister today. Had a great conversation. We talked about trade... He's very interested in that. Although 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,” Trump said during the event. “He's a great person, and he's become a great friend of mine over the years,” he added.

Emphasizing Diwali’s symbolism, Trump remarked, “In a few moments, we'll light the diya as a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness... It's knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. During Diwali, the revellers recall ancient stories of enemies defeated, obstacles removed, and captives freed.”

Following his remarks, Trump lit the diyas to mark the celebration at the White House. Several senior officials from his administration were in attendance, including FBI Director Kash Patel, ODNI Director Tulsi Gabbard, White House Deputy Press Secretary Kush Desai, India’s Ambassador to the US Vinay Mohan Kwatra, and the US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor.

Also present were prominent Indian-American business leaders, reflecting the growing involvement of the Indian diaspora in strengthening the US-India partnership. The White House celebration highlighted both the cultural significance of Diwali in the United States and the enduring friendship between the two democracies.