Delhi, 22 October (H.S.): On Wednesday, in a significant diplomatic exchange marking the festival of lights, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his heartfelt thanks to United States President Donald Trump for his warm Diwali greetings and a personal phone call. The exchange underscored the resilient partnership between the two nations, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to shared democratic values and the global fight against terrorism.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted the conversation on the social media platform X, conveying a powerful message of unity. His post stated:“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.

”The Prime Minister’s Office noted that Modi emphasized the enduring strength of the India–United States partnership and reiterated India's unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and fostering international cooperation.

Across the globe, President Trump celebrated the occasion by hosting a Diwali ceremony in the Oval Office, where he lit a traditional lamp, or diya. In a statement, President Trump described the festival as a timeless reminder of light’s victory over darkness and an opportunity to draw strength from hope, and embrace a lasting spirit of renewal.

He extended his warmest wishes to the people of India, speaking on the symbolism of the diya as a representation of faith in the triumph of good over evil .This exchange comes after the leaders launched the U.S.-India COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology) for the 21st Century initiative during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Washington in February 2025, which was aimed at driving transformative change in defense and trade cooperation.

The Diwali gestures reinforce the foundations of this comprehensive global strategic partnership, which is built on mutual trust and shared interests.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar