During initial remarks, the US President praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a "great person" and a "great friend", while highlighting US-India ties in trade and regional peace.

"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," Trump said at the event.

"He`s a great person, and he`s become a great friend of mine over the years," the US President added.

Highlighting the symbolic importance of the festival, President Trump said, " In a few moments, we`ll light the diya as a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness... It`s knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. During Diwali, the revellers recall ancient stories of enemies defeated, obstacles removed, and captives freed."

He further added that the Diya`s flame reminds everyone "to seek the path of wisdom and to work with diligence and to always give thanks for our many blessings."

Following his initial remarks, Trump lit up the diyas to celebrate the festival at the White House.