Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump for his Diwali greetings and emphasized the importance of a united global stance against terrorism.

During his Diwali celebration at the White House on Tuesday, President Trump said he had a “great conversation” with PM Modi earlier that day. “I just spoke to your Prime Minister today. We talked about trade, we talked about a lot of things, but mostly about trade. He’s very interested in that,” Trump told reporters.

In response, PM Modi posted on X, “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.”

Trump hosted a special Diwali ceremony at the White House, lighting a traditional diya and calling it “a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness.” The event was attended by Indian Ambassador to the U.S. Vinay Kwatra, newly appointed U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, FBI Director Kash Patel, and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. Prominent Indian-American business leaders also joined the celebration.

Describing PM Modi as “a great person” who “loves the people of India,” Trump reaffirmed the strength of the U.S.–India partnership. He also claimed to have helped ease tensions between India and Pakistan earlier this year, saying, “We have no war with Pakistan and India. That was a very, very good thing.”

The exchange of Diwali greetings underscores the enduring warmth of India–U.S. relations, particularly in areas of trade, security, and shared democratic values.