Sergio Gor Shows Optimism on U.S.–India Ties at Senate Hearing
Sergio Gor, President Donald Trump’s pick for U.S. Ambassador to India, sounded confident during his Senate confirmation hearing on Thursday. He told lawmakers that the U.S.–India partnership remains strong, even with recent disputes over trade and India’s oil imports from Russia.
Gor also serves as Director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office. He said trade talks are moving fast and could bring results soon. According to him, deals on oil, petroleum products, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) may be finalized in the coming weeks.
India’s Market Potential
Gor highlighted India’s huge economic opportunity. He pointed to its middle class, which he said is larger than the entire U.S. population. This, he argued, makes India a key partner for American exports and investment.
He stressed that the U.S. wants to open markets further. His plan includes India buying more American crude oil and LNG while also expanding cooperation in AI, pharmaceuticals, and critical minerals.
Managing Disagreements
Gor addressed recent tensions directly. The U.S. had pressed India to cut Russian oil imports, but India refused, citing market needs and national interest. He said such differences have not damaged the broader relationship.
According to him, a big strength lies in the personal bond between Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Gor called their relationship “unique” and a key reason for resilience in U.S.–India ties. Even during trade disputes, he noted, Trump continued to praise Modi.
On India’s outreach to China and platforms like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Gor struck a dismissive note. He said such forums are “photo-ops,” while U.S.–India relations are deeper and warmer, shaped by shared strategic vision.
Trade Talks and Tariff Hurdles
Gor told the committee that the two countries are “not far apart” on trade issues. He sounded hopeful that tariff disagreements and market access concerns could be resolved quickly.
He admitted that Indian regulatory and protectionist policies have caused friction in the past. But he called them “solvable” and said ongoing talks aim to remove these barriers, giving U.S. companies a clearer path into India’s market.
Signs of a Diplomatic Reset
The hearing carried extra weight as it followed weeks of strain. Recently, the U.S. imposed 25% tariffs on Indian goods and added penalties linked to India’s oil imports from Russia. India rejected those measures firmly.
However, President Trump has lately shown fresh interest in talks, which India welcomed. Gor’s testimony echoed this shift, presenting cautious optimism. He argued that shared values and common goals would help both democracies overcome friction and build a stronger partnership.
