New Delhi

Signalling a move to rebuild recently strained ties, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor on Monday said no country is as essential to the United States as India and emphasised that both sides are actively engaged in finalising a bilateral trade deal.

In his first public address after assuming charge, Gor outlined what he called a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to redefine diplomacy between the two nations. “No partner is more essential than India. In the months and years ahead, it is my goal as ambassador to pursue a very ambitious agenda. We will do this as true strategic partners, each bringing strength, respect, and leadership to the table,” he said.

Gor, 38, highlighted the “real” friendship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying it would help resolve differences that have marked a low point in bilateral relations over the past two decades. Relations were strained after the US imposed 50 per cent tariffs on India, including additional duties on Russian crude, alongside disputes over immigration policies and other diplomatic issues.

“The United States and India are bound not just by shared interests, but by a relationship anchored at the highest levels. Real friends can disagree, but always resolve their differences in the end,” Gor added.

On trade, Gor confirmed that negotiations on the proposed bilateral trade deal are ongoing, stating, “Both sides continue to actively engage. In fact, the next call on trade will occur tomorrow.” He also referenced Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s recent remark that 2026 would be a “year of reciprocity,” underscoring the US focus on fair trade and mutual respect.

Beyond trade, Gor said cooperation would extend to security, counter-terrorism, energy, technology, education, and health, reflecting a broader strategic agenda.

The ambassador also announced India’s upcoming inclusion in the US-led Pax Silica initiative, aimed at securing critical minerals and developing AI technologies. “Today, I am pleased to announce that India will be invited to join this group of nations as a full member next month,” Gor said, noting that Japan, South Korea, the UK, Israel, and several other nations are already part of the alliance.

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Gor described the initiative as essential for ensuring that India and the US “work hand in hand from the very start” as the world adopts new technologies.