Sergio Gor, President Donald Trump's nominee for U.S. Ambassador to India, told senators on Thursday that President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi share a “deep friendship” that continues to shape the trajectory of U.S.–India relations. Gor, who currently serves as director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office, appeared before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee as part of his confirmation hearing. His nomination was announced on August 22 and includes an additional role as Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs.

During the hearing, Gor emphasized the importance of the US-India relationship, stating that India is "one of the most important relationships our nation has in the world". He outlined a comprehensive strategy for advancing this critical partnership, highlighting its significance for bilateral ties, global stability, and prosperity.

Responding to a question about leveraging US-India ties to help resolve the Ukraine conflict, Gor stated, “Our President has a deep friendship with Prime Minister Modi, and that is something unique”. He noted that even when Trump has criticized India over trade issues, he has consistently praised Modi's leadership. “They have an incredible relationship. I've been with them in the same room,” Gor added.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed that sentiment during the hearing, describing India as central to U.S. global strategy. Rubio said that India is one of the top relationships the U.S. has in the world today. He added that it is important that the United States be represented at that post with someone who has the direct ear and confidence of the President of the United States.

Gor told the committee that Washington and New Delhi are “not that far apart” on a trade deal, with talks advancing into the “nitty-gritty” stage. He also said that the issue between India and the US regarding the 50 per cent tariffs on Indian products should be resolved in a few weeks. He pledged, if confirmed, to focus on rebuilding trust, easing trade frictions, and expanding cooperation in defense, climate, and technology.

Gor emphasized that India remains a “strategic partner" for the United States and pledged to strengthen ties across security, trade and shared values if confirmed. “India is not simply a regional ally but a strategic partner," he said, outlining priorities that include rebuilding trust, addressing trade frictions and expanding cooperation in climate, defence and technology. He also highlighted deepening defense and security cooperation with India as a key priority. This includes expanding joint military exercises, advancing co-development and co-production of defence systems and concluding critical defence sales.

Sergio Gor's nomination is being closely watched in both Washington and New Delhi. If confirmed, the 38-year-old Gor will be the youngest American ambassador to India.