PM Modi, Trump Discuss “Hope” and Joint Fight Against Terrorism After Diwali Call
Washington:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed gratitude to former US President Donald Trump for extending Diwali greetings, emphasizing the importance of shared democratic values and joint efforts to combat terrorism. His message comes at a time when Washington’s growing proximity to Pakistan — a nation long accused of exporting terror — adds a layer of diplomatic significance to the exchange.
“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,” PM Modi posted online.
The Prime Minister’s message came just hours after Trump lit a traditional lamp at a special Diwali event in the White House. Addressing reporters later, Trump said he had spoken with Modi earlier in the day, discussing trade and regional stability. “We had a great conversation. We talked about trade, and a lot of things, but mostly about the world of trade. He’s very interested in that,” Trump said.
The event was attended by Indian Ambassador to the US Vinay Kwatra, along with FBI chief Kash Patel, intelligence head Tulsi Gabbard, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, and several prominent Indian American business leaders.
Trump referred to Modi as a “great friend” and reiterated his earlier claim that India would significantly reduce its oil imports from Russia — an issue tied to global energy security amid the Russia-Ukraine war. “We just have a very good relationship. He’s not going to buy much oil from Russia. He wants that war to end as much as anyone,” Trump said.
However, Indian officials have previously denied that such a conversation took place. In a separate statement that did not name Trump, New Delhi reaffirmed that its energy policy remains focused on safeguarding consumer interests in a volatile global oil market.
Trump also repeated his past claim that he played a role in reducing tensions between India and Pakistan earlier this year — a claim India has categorically rejected. According to Indian officials, the ceasefire was a result of military-level talks, not external mediation.
During the Diwali event, Trump extended his “warmest wishes” to Indians worldwide, calling the festival a symbol of “faith, victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.”
Ambassador Kwatra said the celebration reflected America’s strength in diversity, while FBI chief Patel praised Trump for recognizing the global contributions of Indian Americans.
