Trump–Modi Friendship Is Real, India an ‘Essential Partner’ for US: Ambassador-Designate Sergio Gor

The United States has reiterated the strategic importance of India amid ongoing trade and tariff tensions, with newly appointed US ambassador-designate Sergio Gor calling New Delhi an “essential partner” and affirming that the friendship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump is “very real”.

Speaking during his first public interaction after assuming office, Gor said there was “no partner more essential than India” for the United States, adding that both countries continue to engage closely on trade and strategic cooperation. He also revealed that Washington is working to invite India to join Pax Silica next month, a move seen as part of broader technology and security collaboration.

Gor formally took charge as the US ambassador to India on Monday and is expected to present his credentials to President Droupadi Murmu later this week. He succeeded former ambassador Eric Garcetti, having arrived in New Delhi in October 2025.

Describing his mission, Gor said he was honoured to represent the United States in India, calling the partnership “the intersection of the world’s oldest democracy and the world’s largest democracy”. He emphasised that Washington aims to take bilateral ties “to the next level”.

Trade tensions in the backdrop

The ambassador’s remarks come amid renewed trade friction between the two countries. In recent days, President Trump warned of possible additional tariffs on India over its continued purchase of Russian oil. Speaking to reporters last week, Trump said he could “raise tariffs very quickly” if concerns were not addressed. Shortly after, Trump approved a Russia sanctions bill that could impose tariffs of up to 500% on Russia and on countries trading with Moscow in oil, petroleum and uranium, a move that has drawn global attention.

Despite these challenges, Gor’s comments underline Washington’s view of India as a critical strategic and economic partner at a time of shifting global alliances.