Sergio Gor Says PM Modi’s Support For Trump Still Shapes US-India Ties

US Ambassador Sergio Gor has said that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s support for US President Donald Trump during the period when he was out of power continues to be remembered within American political circles. His remarks come amid ongoing discussions between India and the United States on strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in trade, technology, and strategic cooperation.

Gor stated that President Trump has repeatedly acknowledged PM Modi’s support during his political setback, suggesting that such gestures have had a lasting impact on their personal rapport. He quoted Trump as saying that it “matters when you are down to identify who your friend is,” describing Modi as a leader who stood by him during that period. Gor added that this sentiment continues to influence the current tone of engagement between the two leaders.

The US envoy further said that the administration views the India-US partnership as potentially the “defining relationship” of the current global era. He emphasized that both countries are working toward deepening cooperation across multiple sectors, including defence, technology, and trade. According to him, the relationship is being actively strengthened in line with shared strategic and economic interests.

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On the ongoing trade negotiations, Gor revealed that discussions on an interim India-US trade agreement are “99% complete” following recent visits by Indian representatives to Washington. He noted that only a small portion of issues remains unresolved, primarily relating to export controls and technology transfer frameworks. He also highlighted the importance of continued “candid and constructive engagement” between the two sides to finalise the agreement.

Gor added that India remains an attractive destination for global investors and praised the country’s focus on intellectual property protection. He said that the US administration is keen to expand bilateral trade opportunities, with an emphasis on enabling American businesses to benefit from India’s growing economy. According to him, facilitating a comprehensive trade agreement remains one of the top priorities for the current US leadership.

He further stated that the United States is actively identifying new global centres of economic and strategic power, with India emerging as a key partner in this evolving landscape. Gor said the administration sees significant potential in strengthening ties with New Delhi and intends to expand cooperation in areas where mutual interests continue to align, particularly in trade, innovation, and security.

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