In pictures: Trump celebrates Diwali at White House with Indian-Americans

'I am grateful for my friendship with Prime Minister Modi. We are trying very hard to make better trade deals with India. But they're very good traders. They're very good negotiators, the best,' the US president said.

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.

"As we light the diya in the White House and we join in the fellowship with all of those who light lamps in their own home, cities and places of worship. America is a land of faith and we are truly fortunate to have these wonderful traditions woven into the tapestry of our national life," Trump said.

Trump administration regulatory czar Neomi Rao (C) reacts after US President Donald Trump announced his intent to nominate her to fill Brett Kavanaugh's former seat on the DC Circuit Federal Court of Appeals during the Diwali ceremonial lighting of the Diya at the White House.

US President Trump while celebrating Diwali at the White House joked that Indians are "very good traders" and "very good negotiators".

"I am grateful for my friendship with Prime Minister Modi. We are trying very hard to make better trade deals with India. But they're very good traders. They're very good negotiators, the best," the US president said.

The first White House Diwali celebrations was held in 2003 under the then president George W Bush, however, he didn't attend the ceremony.
 
Since 2003, Diwali celebrations at the White House has become an annual tradition. In 2009, former President Barack Obama had lit the ceremonial lamp in the East room of the White House.