Donald Trump hails India as best trade negotiator; says blessed to have hard-working Indian citizens
US President Donald Trump on Tuesday celebrted Diwali in the White House along with top Indian-American personnel. Trump while delivering vote of thanks said, “Our nation is blessed to be home to millions of hardworking citizens of Indians and Southeast Asian heritage to enrich our country in countless ways. Together we are, one proud American family.”
Trump said that he is grateful to have numerous Americans of Indians and Southeast Asian heritage who fulfilled critical roles across his administration and have done an incredible job.
Along with nearly two dozen top Indian American officials of his Administration, President Trump had invited the Indian Ambassador to the US, Navtej Singh Sarna, his wife Dr. Avina Sarna, and his special assistant Pratik Mathur to be present during the White House Diwali celebrations.
Today, we gathered for Diwali, a holiday observed by Buddhists, Sikhs, and Jains throughout the United States & around the world. Hundreds of millions of people have gathered with family & friends to light the Diya and to mark the beginning of a New Year. https://t.co/epHogpTY1A pic.twitter.com/9LUwnhngWJ
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2018
"I'm honored to host this beautiful ceremony at the White House. Very, very special people. We're gathered today to celebrate a very special holiday observed by Buddhist, Sikhs and Jains throughout the United States and around the world. Hundreds of millions of people have gathered with family and friends to light the Diya and to mark the beginning of a New year: very special new year," Donald Trump said.
Besides, the US President acknowledged his friendship with the Indian Prime Minister. “The United States has deep ties to the nation of India and I am grateful for my friendship with PM Modi.”
Commenting on the US and India's trade relations, Trump hails India as one of the best trade negotiators. “We are trying very hard to make better trade deals with India but they are very good traders. They are very good negotiators.”
“India is the world's largest democracy and the relationship between two countries can act as more work for freedom, prosperity, and peace,” he said.
Click to watch the entire video.
First published: 14 November 2018, 11:35 IST