New US Envoy Sergio Gor Pitches 'Next-Level' Ties with India, Signals Possible Trump Visit Amid Trade Strains

Sergio Gor formally assumed office as the United States Ambassador to India on Monday, pledging to deepen the strategic partnership between Washington and New Delhi while strongly hinting at a potential visit by President Donald Trump in the near future.

Speaking after taking charge, Gor struck a tone of personal diplomacy and strategic intent. He described Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump as “real friends,” noting that the bilateral relationship is rooted in mutual respect and sustained by direct ties at the highest political level. 

Image Source: USAmbassadorIndia

Gor’s remarks included repeated references to his proximity with Trump, whom he has accompanied across the world, and underlined the former president’s continued interest in India.

“I spoke with President Trump just yesterday,” Gor said, “and I bring his warm wishes to all the people of India, especially his dear friend, the incredible Prime Minister Modi.” 

He also suggested a visit by Trump could happen within “the next year or two,” adding that the president often works late into the night—conveniently aligning with India’s time zone.

Gor's arrival marks a key inflection point in the relationship. While reaffirming that “no partner is more essential than India,” he acknowledged the complexity of the moment. The ambassador noted active negotiations on a long-awaited trade agreement, disclosing that the next round of talks would begin Tuesday. 

India continues to face stiff tariffs from the US—currently at 50% for certain exports, including a 25% penalty specifically tied to New Delhi’s crude imports from Russia. A new bill, recently endorsed by Trump, proposes up to 500% tariffs on countries continuing energy trade with Moscow and is set to be tabled in the US Senate.

Calling India the world's largest democracy and a vital strategic partner, Gor outlined an ambitious agenda spanning security, counter-terrorism, advanced technology, education, health, and energy. 

He placed particular emphasis on cooperation through the US-led Pax Silica framework—a multilateral initiative focused on critical minerals and advanced manufacturing—and confirmed that India would be invited to join.

While Gor’s tone was largely conciliatory, it reflected a clear pivot back to high-level engagement. “Real friends can disagree, but they always resolve their differences in the end,” he said, underscoring the current administration’s intention to stabilise and reset the relationship. 

He said he arrived in India with a mandate to advance ties across sectors, describing his role as one grounded in “profound respect” and shared democratic values.