US ambassador-designate Sergio Gor meets PM Modi

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met US Ambassador-designate Sergio Gor in New Delhi, marking the first high-level interaction between the two since Gor’s Senate confirmation as the next American envoy to India. The meeting comes amid ongoing trade tensions and hopes for renewed momentum in the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Sergio Gor said, “I had an incredible meeting with Prime Minister Modi. We discussed bilateral issues, including defence, trade and technology. We also discussed the importance of critical minerals.”He added, “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.”PM Modi wrote on X, “Glad to receive Mr. Sergio Gor, Ambassador-designate of the US to India. I’m confident that his tenure will further strengthen the India–US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.” He also shared a photograph with Gor, where both are seen holding a large framed image of PM Modi and US President Donald Trump from their joint press conference at the White House earlier this year.The photo bears a handwritten note from Trump, along with his signature, that reads, “Mr Prime Minister, You are great!”Gor noted that the United States “values its relationship with India” and emphasised that his visit underscored Washington’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation. Earlier in the day, he also held discussions with external affairs minister S Jaishankar and foreign secretary Vikram Misri. “We had a great series of meetings,” Gor said, adding that both sides exchanged views on expanding defence ties and economic collaboration. EAM Jaishankar described his meeting with Gor as “productive,” saying on X, “Discussed the India-US relationship and its global significance. Wish him the best for his new responsibility.” Gor, accompanied by US deputy secretary for management and resources Michael J Rigas, is currently on a six-day visit to India. The trip comes amid ongoing strains in India-US relations following Washington’s decision to impose 50 per cent tariffs on Indian exports — including 25 per cent additional duties on crude oil purchases from Russia. Despite these challenges, the recent phone call between PM Modi and Trump, and Gor’s outreach in New Delhi, are being seen as signs of optimism in resetting trade negotiations. Earlier, during his Senate confirmation hearing, Gor had highlighted the “deep friendship” between Trump and PM Modi, calling it a “unique strength” in advancing bilateral relations. He said, “India is a strategic partner whose trajectory will shape the region and beyond.” Gor’s formal presentation of credentials is expected to take place at a later date, according to the US embassy.