Sergio Gor, President Donald Trump's pick for the next US ambassador to India, has affirmed India as a "strategic partner" of the United States and expressed optimism that a tariff deal between the two nations is within reach. These remarks were made during his Senate confirmation hearing.

Gor emphasized the importance of the relationship, stating that India's "geographic position, economic growth and military capabilities make it a cornerstone for regional stability and a critical part of promoting prosperity and advancing the security interests that our nations share". Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the US has "one of the top relationships" with India and that the "story of the 21st century will be written in the Indo-Pacific".

Regarding trade, Gor indicated that the US and India are "not that far apart" on tariff issues and suggested an agreement is imminent. He disclosed that President Trump has invited India's commerce and trade ministers to visit the US for meetings with USTR Jamieson Greer. Gor stated, "We're actively negotiating with the Indians right now...Part of that will include a hopeful deal. We're not that far apart right now on a deal. In fact, they're negotiating the nitty-gritty of a deal".

Despite the optimism, trade relations between the two countries have been strained. The Trump administration has imposed a 25% reciprocal duty on Indian goods, along with an additional 25% levy linked to India's purchase of Russian oil, bringing the total tariff burden to 50%. Trump has criticized India for "fueling Russia's deadly attacks on Ukraine" through these oil purchases. Gor also mentioned that "Getting India to stop buying Russian oil is a top priority for this administration".

When questioned about the higher tariffs imposed on India compared to China, Gor responded, "Look, we hold our friends to different standards. We expect more from India than we do from other nations".

Despite these challenges, both sides appear to be working towards a resolution. Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated that the first tranche of a trade deal with the US should be ready by November 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also welcomed President Trump's positive remarks on trade talks, expressing confidence that the negotiations will "pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the partnership".

Sergio Gor's nomination as US Ambassador to India is viewed as a sign of the importance and priority of the bilateral relationship. If confirmed, the 38-year-old Gor would be the youngest American ambassador to India. He has pledged to increase defense cooperation, ensure fair and beneficial trade, deepen energy security, and further technology collaboration between the two countries. He also lauded India for being a “stopgap” within the BRICS grouping.