White House Presidential Personnel Office Director Sergio Gor, who is President Trump's nominee for the position of US Ambassador to India, declared on Thursday that President Donald Trump has a "deep friendship" with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Answering a question from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on whether stronger US-India ties could help in resolving the Ukraine crisis, Gor remarked, “Our President has a deep friendship with Prime Minister Modi, and that is something unique.”
He pointed out that despite Trump’s occasional criticism of India over trade, the former president has consistently admired Modi’s leadership.
“They have an incredible relationship. I’ve been with them in the same room,” Gor recalled, noting that talks on tariff issues are already underway.
Gor also stressed that limiting India’s dependence on Russian oil purchases remains one of the administration’s top objectives.
His remarks came as Washington and New Delhi strengthen their alliance, specifically in terms of energy and trade. Gor reported to legislators that the two parties are "not that far apart right now" on finalizing a trade agreement, with discussions having reached the "nitty-gritty" level.
Renewing India's significance, he framed the nation as an "strategic partner" of America, vowing to strengthen cooperation in defence, trade, and common democratic values in case his nomination clears.
"India is not simply a regional ally but a strategic partner," he informed the Senate, laying down objectives which include rebuilding confidence, relaxing trade tensions, and increasing cooperation on climate, security, and technology.
Emphasizing the importance of the relationship, Secretary of State Marco Rubio testified at Gor's hearing, "India is one of America's leading relationships today when it comes to the future of the world."
Gor's ambassadorial nomination to India on August 22, in conjunction with his appointment as Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs, was widely reported. A close Trump associate known for his firm conservative ideological stance, his expected appointment is making waves in Washington and New Delhi.
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