New Delhi: US Ambassador-designate to India, Sergio Gor, met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi today, signaling a potential reset in India-US relations amid existing trade and tariff disputes. Gor conveyed that President Trump considers PM Modi "a great and personal friend".
The meeting, which took place at the Prime Minister's residence, is considered an important diplomatic step as Gor prepares to formally assume his office early next year. Following the meeting, Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence that Gor's tenure would further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. "Glad to receive Mr. Sergio Gor, Ambassador-designate of the US to India. I'm confident that his tenure will further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership," Modi posted on X.
As a symbolic gesture of goodwill, Gor presented Modi with a signed and framed photograph from a previous joint press conference at the White House. The photograph featured a handwritten message from President Trump, which read: "Mr Prime Minister, you are great".
Prior to meeting with the Prime Minister, Ambassador-designate Gor also held meetings with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. Discussions during these meetings focused on reinforcing the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and identifying shared priorities. Jaishankar conveyed his best wishes to Gor for his new role, stating, "Discussed the India-US relationship and its global significance".
Gor's visit occurs during a sensitive period in bilateral relations. Relations between the two countries have been strained due to trade tensions that arose from steep US tariffs imposed under the Trump administration, including punitive duties on certain Indian goods and tariffs implemented in response to India's import of Russian oil. Despite these challenges, diplomatic channels remain active. Following a recent phone conversation between Modi and Trump, Indian officials reported "good progress" in restarting trade negotiations and enhancing strategic communication to resolve differences.
Sergio Gor's arrival in India, accompanied by Deputy Secretary for Management and Resources Michael J. Rigas, underscores the United States' commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with India and promoting a more secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. Gor's visit, scheduled from October 9 to October 14, includes meetings with various Indian government officials to address a wide range of bilateral issues.
Despite the existing trade frictions, there is optimism that ongoing discussions will help ease tensions. Recent reports indicate that the US Senate confirmed Gor's appointment as the next US Ambassador to India, suggesting Washington's eagerness to strengthen diplomatic and political interactions with India.
The United States has emerged as India's largest export destination, accounting for nearly a quarter of its total exports during the first half of 2025. Both nations have a shared interest in deepening strategic cooperation, which may encourage them to navigate the complexities of agricultural market access and other trade-related sensitivities.
President Trump has often expressed admiration for Prime Minister Modi. In the past, Trump has described Modi as a "terrific man" and lauded his leadership and negotiation skills. He has also acknowledged Modi as a "tough negotiator" and "a great friend".
