US President Donald Trump marked the festival of Diwali with a ceremony at the White House, describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as ‘a great person’ and expressing deep affection for ‘the people of India’.
The celebration brought together several dignitaries, including Indian Ambassador to the US Vinay Kwatra, newly appointed US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, FBI Director Kash Patel, and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard.
Prominent members of the Indian-American business community also joined the event.
Symbolism of Light and Goodness
Lighting a traditional diya in the Oval Office, President Trump said the lamp symbolised the triumph of light over darkness and goodness over evil.
Extending greetings to people celebrating Diwali around the world, he said the festival was a reminder to value wisdom, perseverance, and gratitude.
Ambassador Kwatra thanked President Trump for opening the White House to celebrate Diwali, noting that the gesture reflected the strength of US–India ties and America’s respect for cultural diversity.
He conveyed greetings on behalf of Prime Minister Modi and the Indian diaspora, adding that the festival’s light symbolised enduring friendship between the two nations.
Kash Patel, serving as the FBI Director and one of the highest-ranking Indian Americans in the Trump administration, said it was a proud moment to see Diwali celebrated in the Oval Office.
He commended the President for recognising the festival’s universal message and said that millions of Indian Americans remain encouraged by the White House’s celebration of cultural inclusion.
Speaking to reporters later, Trump said he had held a phone conversation with Prime Minister Modi earlier in the day. He noted that both leaders discussed economic cooperation and were ‘working on some great trade deals’.
Trump also said that India had assured the US it would reduce its oil purchases from Russia, adding that Prime Minister Modi shared his wish to see an early end to the war between Russia and Ukraine.
Tariffs and Tensions with China
Although India has increased oil imports from Russia in recent years, China remains Moscow’s largest energy buyer.
The Trump administration recently imposed a 25 per cent tariff on India over those oil imports, while not taking similar action against China.
Asked about possible new tariffs on Beijing, Trump said China would face higher duties—up to 155 per cent from 1 November, in response to its export restrictions on rare earth elements.
He further added that while he wanted to maintain good relations, “China has been very rough with us,” and the US was prepared to respond firmly.
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