Sergio Gor Takes Charge as New US Ambassador to India, Highlights ‘Genuine’ Trump–Modi Ties

Sergio Gor on Monday formally assumed charge as the new United States ambassador to India and special envoy to South and Central Asia during a ceremony at the US Embassy in New Delhi. The event drew attention not only for its diplomatic significance but also for Gor’s unconventional entry and pointed remarks on the Trump–Modi relationship.

As Gor walked up to the podium to take the oath of office, the 1966 soul classic “Hold On, I’m Comin’” by Sam & Dave played in the background, prompting cheers from those present. Written by Isaac Hayes and David Porter, the upbeat track once topped the Billboard Hot R&B chart. Sam Moore, one half of the iconic duo, passed away last year at the age of 89.

The ceremony marked the formal start of Gor’s tenure at a sensitive moment in India–US relations. Ties have seen strain amid President Donald Trump’s repeated claims of brokering an India–Pakistan ceasefire following Operation Sindoor, as well as his decision to impose a 50% tariff on Indian imports over New Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil during the Ukraine war.

Remarks on Trump–Modi ties

In his first address after assuming office, Gor underscored the personal rapport between President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing their relationship as “genuine” and rooted at the highest political level.

“I’ve traveled all over the world with President Trump, and I can attest that his friendship with Prime Minister Modi is real,” Gor said, according to news agency ANI. “The United States and India are bound not only by shared interests but also by a relationship anchored at the highest levels. Real friends can disagree but always resolve their differences in the end.”

Trump’s likely visit

Gor said he was taking on the role with a clear mission to strengthen bilateral ties, adding that he approached India with “profound respect.”

“It is great to be here as the United States ambassador. I come to this remarkable nation with profound respect and a clear mission: to elevate the partnership between our two nations to the next level,” he said. “This is the intersection between the world’s oldest democracy and the world’s largest democracy.”

Referring to his recent interaction with Trump, Gor added, “During my last dinner with him, President Trump recounted his most recent visit to India and spoke fondly of his great friendship with the Prime Minister.”

Striking a lighter note, Gor spoke about Trump’s working style and the time difference between Washington and New Delhi.

“I hope the President will visit us soon, hopefully within the next year or two,” he said. “President Trump has a habit of calling at 2 am, and with the time difference in New Delhi, that might work out pretty well.”

Who is Sergio Gor?

A trusted Trump confidant and businessman, Sergio Gor is widely seen as a key figure within the US President’s inner circle, known for his loyalty during Trump’s political campaigns.

Before his diplomatic appointment, Gor served as CEO of Winning Team Publishing, a firm he co-founded to promote conservative voices and authors, working closely with Donald Trump Jr. He also played a significant role in Republican Party fundraising as the head of the Right for America PAC, which supported Trump’s re-election efforts.

Gor brings extensive Capitol Hill experience, having previously served as a senior aide and communications director to influential Republican Senator Rand Paul. A seasoned businessman, his private-sector background is expected to shape his approach to advancing US–India trade, commerce, and strategic cooperation.