Top Indian and American diplomats celebrated Diwali, the festival of lights, here on Monday, reflecting the "great strength" of partnership between the two largest democracies of the world.
Indian Ambassador to the US Navtej Sarna and Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan were chief guests at the Diwali celebrations held at Foggy Bottom headquarters of the State Department.
Sullivan said the celebration of Diwali at the State Department reflects the great strength of partnership with India and shared values of tolerance, diversity, freedom and justice.
Shubh Deepavali, India! Wishing everyone a happy and prosperous #Diwali. @PMOIndia @MEAIndia pic.twitter.com/K7FVkqXogW
— Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) November 6, 2018
Around 200 guests, including officials of the State Department and the Indian Embassy, attended the celebrations. This was for the first time that the State Department organised its Diwali celebrations in collaboration with the Indian Embassy.
Celebration of Diwali at the State Department symbolises the growing people to people connect between India and the US, Sarna said.
#Diwali serves as a perfect opportunity to celebrate the friendship between the U.S. and #India. Earlier today, Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan hosted India Ambassador to the United States Navtej Sarna and his colleagues at @StateDept to enjoy traditional food and music. pic.twitter.com/qc4K0DGcc6
— State_SCA (@State_SCA) November 5, 2018
He highlighted the rising profile and growing recognition of the contribution of US citizens of Indian origin, including within the US State Department.
Sarna also made a reference to release of Diwali stamp by the United States Postal Service in 2016 in recognition of the closer cultural ties and commonalities between the two democracies.
Sullivan conveyed his greetings to all Indians on the occasion of Diwali and thanked the Embassy of India and the South Asian American Employee Association (SAAEA) for organising the event.
Met Leader of the Opposition Hon. Sampanthan to wish him a Happy Deepavali and to discuss the importance of parliament reconvening immediately to end the political impasse. Also restated our commitment to Constitutional reform and other steps necessary for lasting reconciliation. pic.twitter.com/UcRWfsrcOi
— USAmbSLM (@USAmbSLM) November 6, 2018
He said that the uniting theme in the celebration of Diwali is the thread of triumph - good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.
Sullivan also said the message of Diwali is one of hope.
Recital of Hindustani classical music played on tabla and sitar, were part of the event.
