PM Modi Thanks Trump For Diwali Greetings, Stresses Unity Against Terrorism

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (22 October) expressed gratitude to US President Donald Trump for his Diwali wishes and called for strengthened cooperation against terrorism, NDTV reported.

The statement gains importance as Washington’s recent engagement with Pakistan continues to draw global attention.

"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," said PM Modi in a social media post.

PM Modi’s early morning post came soon after Trump celebrated Diwali at the White House, by lighting a special lamp.

Speaking to reporters, Trump claimed to have spoken with the Indian leader, reiterating that PM Modi assured a reduction in Russian oil imports and credited himself with easing India-Pakistan tensions earlier this year.

The Diwali celebration at the White House saw attendance from Indian Ambassador Vinay Kwatra, FBI chief Kash Patel, intelligence head Tulsi Gabbard, newly appointed US envoy to India Sergio Gor, and several Hindu Indian-American business figures.

President Trump described PM Modi as a “great friend,” noting that both nations are collaborating on “some great deals” to enhance trade and regional stability.

"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 told press at the White House.

Trump reiterated his earlier claim that Modi assured him India would limit oil imports from Russia, adding that both leaders share the goal of ending the Russia-Ukraine war.

"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. 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 emphasised.

India had earlier rejected a similar claim that Trump spoke to PM Modi.

In a separate statement on energy imports that did not mention Trump or his claim, the government said that its consistent priority is to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumers in a volatile energy scenario.

In a separate clarification on energy trade, the government said its energy policy remains guided by the need to protect Indian consumers amid volatile global markets.

Trump’s remarks align with his broader campaign narrative of ending global conflicts. He suggested that reducing India’s oil imports from Russia would weaken Moscow’s ability to finance its Ukraine offensive.

Revisiting his earlier assertion, Trump again claimed credit for halting India-Pakistan hostilities. However, India has repeatedly denied his claim of mediating between New Delhi and Islamabad during the four-day Operation Sindoor in May.

"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 told guests at the Diwali event.

He told guests a, “We did talk about having no wars with Pakistan — that was a very good thing,” linking the peace effort to trade discussions.

During the Oval Office ceremony, Trump conveyed his “warmest wishes” to Indians worldwide, describing Diwali lamps as a symbol of faith and triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

"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 and to work with diligence and to always give thanks for our many blessings," he added.

Indian Ambassador Vinay Kwatra said that Trump has showcased the strength of diversity by hosting the Diwali celebrations.

FBI chief Kash Patel said Indian Americans across the globe are thrilled to have "such a profound leader."

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