WASHINGTON: Former US President Donald Trump marked Diwali celebrations at the White House on Tuesday, lighting ceremonial lamps and extending greetings to the people of India. Speaking on the occasion, Trump revealed that he had spoken with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with discussions focusing on trade ties and the situation with Pakistan.
“Let me extend our warmest wishes to the people of India,” Trump said during the event. “I just spoke to your Prime Minister today. We had a great conversation about trade—he’s very interested in that. We also talked about avoiding wars with Pakistan. It was a very good discussion. He’s a great person and has become a great friend of mine over the years.”
Trump confirmed that trade negotiations between India and the US are ongoing, even as he announced a 25% tariff on Indian goods over New Delhi’s Russian oil imports, bringing total US import taxes on India to 50% this year.
Touching upon global trade dynamics, Trump commented on the China tariff situation, stating that from November 1, Chinese goods would face 155% tariffs. “I don’t think it’s sustainable for them,” he said, adding that he wanted to maintain cordial relations with Beijing despite years of what he described as unfair trade practices.
Trump also spoke on foreign policy issues, asserting that the US was “forging peace all over the world,” particularly in the Middle East. “We have many countries signed on to peace agreements — nobody thought they’d see that happen,” he claimed.
Referring to Hamas, Trump said, “They’re pretty violent people. We could put that out in two minutes. We’re giving them a chance to honour their commitments. If they don’t, they’ll be dealt with very quickly.”
Concluding his address, Trump said, “It is total peace in the Middle East now. Every country that hated each other now loves each other. Nobody’s ever seen anything like it.”
