PM Modi Thanks Trump for Diwali Wishes, Emphasizes Unity Against Terrorism:

Washington D.C.: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his gratitude to former U.S. President Donald Trump for his Diwali greetings, highlighting the importance of India-U.S. ties and calling for united efforts to combat terrorism. His statement comes at a time when U.S. relations with Pakistan — often criticized for harboring terrorism — continue to evolve. "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 wrote in a social media post. The message was shared early morning, hours after Donald Trump celebrated Diwali by lighting a traditional lamp at a special event in the White House. Trump also told reporters that he had recently spoken with PM Modi and praised the Indian leader as a “great friend.” During the event, Trump claimed that Modi had reiterated India's commitment to reducing oil imports from Russia — a key issue given the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. He also repeated a past assertion that he played a role in easing tensions between India and Pakistan earlier in May, a statement that India has previously denied. “We just spoke to your Prime Minister today,” Trump said at the event. “We had a great conversation — mostly about trade. He’s very focused on that. And he also assured me that India isn’t going to buy much oil from Russia anymore.” Trump emphasized that India cutting back on Russian oil could hurt the Kremlin’s war effort in Ukraine. “They’re continuing to reduce imports, and that’s a positive step,” he added. However, the Indian government has not confirmed any such conversation took place. In response to similar claims made earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs had issued a statement without naming Trump, saying only that India’s priority is to safeguard the interests of its citizens in an unpredictable global energy market. Trump also reiterated his earlier claim of helping de-escalate a conflict between India and Pakistan. He stated, “We talked a little while ago about making sure there’s no war with Pakistan. Through trade talks and good communication, we’ve been able to prevent a major conflict between India and Pakistan.” India has dismissed this claim as well, stating that the ceasefire in question was the result of direct military talks, where Pakistani commanders themselves requested a halt to Indian operations. The Diwali celebration at the White House was attended by Indian Ambassador Vinay Kwatra, FBI official Kash Patel, intelligence community leader Tulsi Gabbard, newly appointed U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, and several prominent Indian American business leaders. Trump, while lighting the ceremonial diya, delivered a message of peace and hope. “Diwali is a symbol of faith — of light overcoming darkness, of good prevailing over evil, and of wisdom triumphing over ignorance,” he said. “During this time, we recall ancient stories of enemies defeated and obstacles overcome. The diya’s glow reminds us to stay on the path of wisdom and be thankful for our blessings.” Indian envoy Vinay Kwatra praised the Diwali celebration as a reflection of America’s diversity and appreciation for Indian culture. FBI official Kash Patel added that Indian Americans across the globe were inspired to see such recognition of their traditions. As India and the U.S. continue to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape, both leaders' messages underline the importance of cooperation — not just in trade, but in promoting global peace and fighting terrorism.

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