Basseterre, St. Kitts, October 30, 2016 (SKNIS): 
This was the second time that the prime minister had been invited to speak at Diwali, commonly known as the Festival of Lights. In his address, the prime minister said:
“Thank you for shining light on Indian culture and for such a wonderful presentation of dance and music. St Kitts and Nevis welcomes the positive contribution you make to all areas of socioeconomic development and notably in areas such as education, health and the commercial life of this country.”
Speaking after the event, the prime minister added:
“St Kitts and Nevis thrives as a result of diverse communities across the Federation. This cultural diversity enriches our appreciation of different faiths and cultural practices and also adds value to our society and economy.”
The organiser, Ramesh Mulkanoor said:
“On behalf of everyone gathered here today to celebrate this year’s Diwali, I want to thank the prime minister for visiting us once again and for saying a few words. His presence shows us how much he supports different cultures and how much he appreciates our positive contribution to society and the economy of the federation. We are very encouraged by his words.”
The five-day festival is traditionally celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains and signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair. Its celebration is typified by lights in homes, shops, businesses, temples and other buildings in the community.
