Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday extended his gratitude to United States President Donald Trump for his Diwali greetings and phone call, describing India and the US as “great democracies” united in their shared commitment to global peace and the fight against terrorism. During their conversation, the two leaders exchanged festive wishes and reaffirmed the strength of bilateral ties, even as discussions touched upon issues such as trade and regional stability, including the situation with Pakistan.
PM Modi, in a post on X, 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.” His message emphasized the enduring friendship between New Delhi and Washington, underscoring the shared democratic values that bind the two nations.
Earlier in the day, President Trump had marked Diwali celebrations at the White House, extending his greetings to the people of India while praising his “great conversation” with Prime Minister Modi. Trump noted that the two leaders discussed several issues, including trade relations and peace in the subcontinent. “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. He’s a great person, and he’s become a great friend of mine over the years,” Trump said during the event.
Despite the cordial exchange, the backdrop to the leaders’ conversation includes ongoing trade tensions. President Trump recently announced a 50% tariff on Indian imports, citing what he termed India’s “massive” purchases of Russian oil. The move has sparked debate in both capitals, though officials from both sides continue to express optimism about maintaining open dialogue and mutual cooperation.
The conversation between Modi and Trump, coming during the festival of Diwali, highlighted the symbolic importance of light over darkness and unity over division. Both leaders reaffirmed their nations’ shared goals strengthening democratic values, advancing trade, and standing together against global terrorism signaling that the spirit of collaboration between India and the United States remains strong despite economic and geopolitical challenges.
