Amid rising trade and tariff tensions, newly appointed US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor has reaffirmed that India continues to be one of the United States’ most important global partners. He also stressed that the personal relationship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump is strong and genuine.
Speaking to reporters after assuming office, Gor said, “No partner is more essential than India,” adding that both countries are continuing discussions to address trade-related issues. He also revealed that the US is working to invite India to join Pax Silica next month, signalling deeper strategic cooperation.
Gor officially took charge as the US Ambassador to India on Monday and is expected to present his credentials to President Droupadi Murmu later this week. He arrived in New Delhi in October 2025, succeeding Eric Garcetti in the role.
In his first public address, Gor said he was honoured to serve in India and described his mission as strengthening ties between the world’s oldest democracy and the world’s largest democracy.
Key points from the ambassador’s statement include:
India remains a top strategic and diplomatic partner for the US
Trade talks between the two countries are ongoing
The US is exploring ways to expand cooperation through Pax Silica
The ambassador’s remarks come at a time when President Trump has issued warnings about higher tariffs on India due to its continued purchase of Russian oil. Speaking aboard Air Force One last week, Trump said Prime Minister Modi was aware of his displeasure and added that tariffs could be increased quickly if necessary.
Following these comments, Trump approved a proposed Russia sanctions bill that could impose tariffs of up to 500 percent on Russia and countries trading with it in oil, petroleum, and uranium.
India currently faces a 50 percent tariff rate from the US. The original rate of 25 percent was doubled after Washington accused New Delhi of indirectly supporting the Ukraine war by buying Russian oil. If the sanctions bill is passed, tariffs could rise sharply on all imports from countries engaging in such trade.
Despite these pressures, US officials continue to underline India’s importance as a long-term partner, suggesting that dialogue and diplomacy will remain central to managing differences between the two nations.
