Ambassador Kwatra meets Senator Hagerty to strengthen India–US ties

Washington: India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra, met US Senator Bill Hagerty this Friday to discuss key aspects of the India–US bilateral relationship, including ongoing negotiations for a mutually beneficial trade agreement, expanding hydrocarbons trade, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

“It was an honour to welcome and host Senator Hagerty and and Madam Hagerty at our residence,” Kwatra posted on X on Friday. “Deeply appreciate and value Senator’s strong support to the India-U.S ties. Discussed various facets of our bilateral partnership, including continuing ongoing talks on a mutually beneficial trade deal, increasing bilateral hydrocarbons trade and working together to address shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.”

Earlier in the week, Ambassador Kwatra and his wife attended a Diwali celebration hosted by US President Donald Trump at the White House. The event was also attended by newly appointed US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, FBI Director Kash Patel, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and prominent Indian-American business leaders.

In a separate post on X, Kwatra wrote: “Deeply honoured to join President Donald J Trump at the White House today to celebrate Diwali. Wished him on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi a Happy Diwali and thanked him for this beautiful gesture. Warm Diwali greetings to all celebrating, especially the vibrant 5 million-strong Indian diaspora in the US.”

President Trump lit a traditional diya in the Oval Office, describing it as “a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness.” He extended Diwali greetings to the people of India and praised Prime Minister Modi, calling him “a great person” and expressing admiration for the Indian people.

“It's knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. During Diwali, revellers recall ancient stories of enemies defeated, obstacles removed and captives freed. The glow of the diya flame reminds us to seek the path of wisdom and to work with diligence and to always give thanks for our many blessings.”

Speaking to reporters, Trump revealed he had spoken with Prime Minister Modi earlier in the week. “I just spoke to your Prime Minister today. We had a great conversation. We talked about trade. We talked about a lot of things, but mostly the world of trade. He's very interested in that,” he said.

Trump also reiterated assurances from India regarding reduced oil imports from Russia. “We just have a very good relationship, and he's not going to buy much oil from Russia. He wants to see that war end as much as with Russia, Ukraine. And as you know, they're not going to be buying too much oil. So, they've got it way back, and they're continuing to cut it way back,” he added.

(Inputs from IANS)