India’s Ambassador Vinay Kwatra Meets US Senator Hagerty, Discusses Trade and Bilateral Ties
Washington D.C., October 24, 2025: India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra, met US Senator Bill Hagerty to discuss multiple facets of India-U.S. bilateral partnership, including ongoing talks for a mutually beneficial trade deal, expanding hydrocarbons trade, and collaborating on shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
“It was an honour to welcome and host Senator Hagerty and Madam Hagerty at our residence. 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,” Kwatra posted on X on Friday.
The meeting comes amid active negotiations between India and the United States over trade, with both sides aiming for agreements that are equitable, sustainable, and strategically beneficial.
Ambassador Kwatra Attends Diwali Celebration at the White House
Earlier this week, Ambassador Kwatra and his wife attended a special Diwali event at the White House hosted by former President Donald Trump. The event saw the presence of US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, FBI Director Kash Patel, and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, along with leading members of the Indian diaspora.
Kwatra shared his experience on X:
“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.”
During the celebrations, Trump lit the diya in the Oval Office, calling it “a symbol of faith in the victory of light over darkness” and extended his “warmest wishes to the people of India.” He also praised Prime Minister Narendra 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, work with diligence, and always give thanks for our many blessings,” Trump said.
Trade and Strategic Cooperation on Agenda
In comments to the press, Trump revealed that he spoke to PM Modi earlier in the week, with discussions focusing primarily on trade relations.
“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,” Trump said.
Trump also noted India’s commitment to reducing Russian oil imports, emphasising the strength of Indo-U.S. relations and the shared goal of ensuring energy security and strategic stability.
“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 and Ukraine,” he added.
Looking Ahead
The discussions between Ambassador Kwatra and Senator Hagerty reflect India’s proactive approach to strengthening bilateral ties, focusing on trade, energy, and regional security cooperation. Coupled with the White House Diwali celebration, these engagements underscore the cultural and strategic dimensions of the growing India-U.S. partnership.
Final Thoughts by The Trending People
India’s diplomatic and cultural outreach in the U.S. highlights the country’s efforts to blend economic negotiations with people-to-people diplomacy. From trade talks with key legislators to celebrating Diwali at the White House, India is reinforcing both strategic and cultural ties with the United States. These initiatives play a pivotal role in shaping long-term Indo-U.S. cooperation across multiple sectors.