US President-elect Joe Biden, Vice President-elect Kamala Harris extend greetings on Diwali

US President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris on Saturday issued a joint statement to extend wishes on Diwali.

US President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris on Saturday (November 14) issued a joint statement to extend wishes on the occasion of Diwali, the Festival of Lights.

"On behalf of our families, we wish a happy Diwali to Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, Buddhists, and everyone celebrating the festival of lights across the United States, India, and the world. Like so many cherished traditions during the pandemic, we know this year’s Diwali and its symbolizing of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and empathy over apathy arrives with a deeper meaning," read the joint statement.

"Our hearts go out to everyone who is ushering in this new year with the recent loss of a loved one, or who finds themselves fallen on hard times. Our prayers remain with everyone fighting the pandemic on the frontlines instead of staying safe at home in prayer with their families. And, we know the sadness of being apart on a day that truly signifies the blessing of family and friendship. But Diwali is ultimately a reminder of the light that’s within us all to hope and dream, and to overcome our differences and keep the faith in each other. That’s the light we see shining on this day and that will guide us through the darkness with knowledge, science, truth, unity, and compassion," it added.

"And that’s why as Diwali is celebrated via video calls and while socially distanced this year, we look forward to celebrating Diwali at the White House next year — in person, together with you, and in a nation healed and united," concluded the statement.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump took to Twitter to extend wishes on the occasion of Diwali. Trump posted a tweet sharing a photo of him lighting a lamp in the White House.

US Secretary of the State Mike Pompeo and the State Department also extended wishes on the 'festival of lights'.

"Happy Diwali! We wish everyone safety and good health as you celebrate the Festival of Lights. Even if physically apart from family and friends, may the spirit of the season bring joy and light," the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs at State Department tweeted.

"Happy Diwali  to everyone celebrating the victory of light over darkness. May you have a joyous festival of lights," Pompeo said.