Blinken Says ‘Honored’ To Host Diwali Reception at State Department
WASHINGTON, DC (ANI) – US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on October 26 hosted an in-person Diwali reception following a gap of two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The event, which followed the White House’s biggest Diwali event on October 24, received guests from the diplomatic and religious communities, from the private sector, and across civil society. “Simply to you: it’s an honor – an honor to host you at the State Department for this first in-person Diwali since before the pandemic,” Blinken said in his remarks at a Diwali reception.
“Over the past few days, Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists have decorated their homes with rangoli; they’ve shared sweets; they’ve given thanks through pooja; they’ve lit sparklers. All around the world, from the streets of New Delhi to the parks of Kuala Lumpur, to right down the street at the White House, people have gathered to share in the simple joy of being around friends and family,” he added.