US Ambassador Gor Signals Reset in India-US Ties, Highlights Trump-Modi Friendship
New US Ambassador-designate Sergio Gor struck a conciliatory tone in New Delhi this week. He made this move just days after US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick publicly blamed India for delays in a trade deal. Gor's remarks signal a clear outreach effort as bilateral relations face strain.
Gor Announces Immediate Steps to Mend Fences
Gor confirmed that trade negotiators from both countries would speak as early as Tuesday. He also announced that India would receive an invitation to join Pax Silica. This US-led strategic initiative focuses on AI and silicon supply chains. These actions aimed to reassure New Delhi of Washington's commitment to repairing frayed ties.
The ambassador's arrival could mark a reset in the relationship. Mutual trust has recently taken a hit. Gor carefully calibrated his first-day statement to underline four key themes.
Personal Connection and High-Level Access
Gor emphasized his personal connection with India. He recalled a 2013 visit that included stops at the Taj Mahal, Ranthambhore, Jaipur, and Punjab. He described India as the intersection of the world's oldest and largest democracies. He spoke warmly of India's friendly people, colours, history, innovation, and spirit.
A significant part of his outreach established his standing in Washington. Gor stressed that President Donald Trump personally chose him for the role. He enjoys direct access to the Oval Office. Gor explained that Trump asked him to be Director of the Office of Presidential Personnel in 2024. That role involved hiring thousands across the federal government.
"I was with the President last week," Gor said. "As we had dinner right after New Year's, he recounted his incredible experience visiting India. He also spoke of his great friendship with Prime Minister Modi. I hope the President will be visiting us soon, hopefully in the next year or two."
The Centrality of the Trump-Modi Relationship
Gor invoked the friendship between Trump and Modi on at least three occasions. He called it a "great friendship" and a "real" bond. This emphasis comes amid a recent chill in ties following public statements from Washington.
"I've travelled all over the world with President Trump," Gor stated. "I can attest that his friendship with Prime Minister Modi is real. The United States and India are bound not just by shared interests, but by a relationship anchored at the highest levels."
Gor also highlighted his direct line to the US President. He shared an anecdote about Trump's habit of calling at unusual hours. "With the time difference in New Delhi, it might actually work out pretty well," he quipped.
Addressing Points of Friction Directly
Gor engaged directly with two key points of friction: the trade deal and India's exclusion from Pax Silica. He acknowledged challenges but expressed determination.
"Real friends can disagree but always resolve their differences in the end," he said. "Both sides continue to actively engage on trade. The next call will occur tomorrow. India is the world's largest nation, so it's not an easy task. But we are determined to get there."
He confirmed India would join Pax Silica as a full member next month. "As the world adopts new technology, it is essential that India and the United States work hand-in-hand from the very start," Gor emphasized.
Reaching Out to the Indian Public and Embassy
Gor reached out to the people of India. Public opinion has been dented by recent rhetoric on tariffs and H-1B visas. "I thank the people of India for a very warm welcome," he said. "You are a resilient, innovative, and spiritual people. I look forward to meeting many of you as I travel across this incredible nation."
He also addressed the embassy staff. "To the staff here at the embassy, I'm excited to work with you," Gor told them. "You and I have an incredible once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to redefine diplomacy." The new Deputy Chief of Mission, Jason P Meeks, has been brought in from Kathmandu.
Departure from Protocol
Significantly, Gor's public statement came before the formal presentation of credentials to President Droupadi Murmu. This marks a departure from standard protocol. Gor visited Delhi in October last year as well. During that visit, he met Prime Minister Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval, and senior officials.
His actions and words suggest a proactive approach to diplomacy. Gor aims to stabilize the partnership through steady, incremental steps. He seeks to address public sentiment while leveraging high-level personal connections.
