'Festival of lights': PM Modi thanks Donald Trump for Diwali greetings; calls India, US 'great democracies'

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on early Wednesday thanked US President Donald Trump for his phone call and warm Diwali greetings . PM Modi also described India and the United States as “great democracies” and emphasised the need to remain united in the fight against terrorism.

PM Modi confirmed their conversation on X, writing, “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.”

Earlier, President Trump marked Diwali celebrations at the White House , extending his greetings to the people of India and mentioning his “great conversation” with PM Modi. He said the two leaders discussed trade and the situation with Pakistan.

"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.

Meanwhile, despite ongoing trade talks , President Trump has imposed a 50% tariff on India over its “massive” Russian oil purchases.