
New Delhi [India], October 11 (ANI): US Ambassador-designate to India Sergio Gor said the United States values its relationship with India and expressed optimism about the future of bilateral ties under the leadership of US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“The US values its relationship with India, and under the strong leadership of President Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Modi, I’m optimistic about the days ahead for both of our nations. President Trump considers Prime Minister Modi a great and personal friend. In fact, just before I left for New Delhi, they had an incredible phone call. And that is something that will continue over the weeks and months ahead,” Gor said.
Gor added that upon his arrival, he met with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, engaging in wide-ranging discussions that included critical minerals.
“We hit the ground running. We had a great series of meetings with Foreign Secretary Misri, External Affairs Minister Dr. Jaishankar, and National Security Adviser Doval. We just finished an incredible meeting with Prime Minister Modi, where we discussed bilateral issues, including defense, trade, and technology. We also discussed the importance of critical minerals and their significance to both of our nations,” he said.
Gor emphasized his commitment to strengthening the partnership between the two countries. “Once again, it’s an honor to serve as President Donald Trump’s ambassador to India, and I look forward to continuing to grow and deepen the relationship between our two nations,” he said.
Earlier in the day, the US Embassy in India officially welcomed Gor, noting that he would meet Indian government counterparts to explore opportunities for enhancing the strategic partnership.
In a post on X, the US Embassy wrote, “Excited to welcome Ambassador Sergio Gor to India! He will meet with Indian government counterparts to discuss opportunities to further deepen our ambitious strategic partnership and promote a safer, stronger, and more prosperous relationship.”
Gor’s first meeting in India was with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, where they discussed the growing global importance of the India-US relationship. Jaishankar wrote on X, “Pleased to meet Ambassador-designate Sergio Gor of the US today in New Delhi. Discussed the India-US relationship and its global significance. Wish him the best for his new responsibility.”
Gor also met with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said on X, “Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met US Ambassador-designate to India @SergioGor earlier today. They had a productive exchange on the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and its shared priorities. FS wished Amb-designate Gor all success for his assignment.”
During his Senate confirmation hearing on September 12, Gor highlighted the “deep friendship” between then US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Modi, calling it a unique strength in advancing bilateral ties.
“India is a strategic partner whose trajectory will shape the region and beyond. India’s geographic position, economic growth, and military capabilities make it a cornerstone of regional stability and a critical part of promoting prosperity and advancing our shared security interests,” Gor said before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
He added, “As Secretary Rubio said, India is one of the most important relationships our nation has in the world. If confirmed, I will prioritize deepening defense and security cooperation with India.”
Gor’s appointment underscores Washington’s commitment to strengthening ties with New Delhi amid the tariffs imposed on India by the Trump administration.
In August, President Trump nominated Gor as the next US Ambassador to India and Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs. His visit marks a significant step in advancing the strategic partnership between the two nations across defense, trade, and technology sectors.
Michael J. Rigas, Deputy Secretary for Management and Resources at the US State Department, announced on Thursday that Gor would travel to India from October 9–14 to meet Indian government counterparts and discuss the broad scope of bilateral relations.
“The United States will continue to work with India to strengthen our strategic partnership and promote a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Indo-Pacific region,” the State Department said in a statement.
According to the US Embassy, Gor’s formal presentation of credentials in India will occur at a later date yet to be determined. (ANI)