Trump's Pick for US Ambassador to India Outlines Plan to Boost Ties, Counter China

Sergio Gor, nominated by US President Donald Trump as the next Ambassador to India, outlined Washington’s strategy for New Delhi during his Senate confirmation hearing on Thursday. He said the US wants India firmly on its side as part of efforts to counter China’s growing influence.

“Chinese expansionism is not just on the border with India, it’s across the region,” Gor told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “We will make it a top priority to bring India closer to us and away from them.”

Calling India a “strategic partner,” Gor highlighted its geographic location, fast-growing economy, and military strength as key factors that make it central to regional security. He described the relationship as one of the most important for the United States globally.

Gor also addressed ongoing trade tensions, saying both countries are committed to resolving them. “We may have our hiccups now, but the relationship is warm and long-term,” he said. Washington hopes to expand access for US crude oil, petroleum products, and LNG in India’s vast market, which Gor noted has a middle class larger than the entire US population.

He stressed that President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi share a strong personal bond. “Even when the President criticizes India, he always praises Modi. Their relationship is incredible,” Gor said.

On energy, Gor made it clear that Washington expects India to cut down on Russian oil imports. He also praised India’s role in blocking efforts within BRICS to move away from the US dollar, saying New Delhi has been more willing to work with Washington than other members of the bloc.

If confirmed, Gor said he would focus on deepening defense and security cooperation, while pushing forward Trump’s “Mission 500” plan to double trade between the two nations to $500 billion by 2030.

“India’s role in ensuring stability and security in the region cannot be overstated,” Gor said. “The US-India partnership, under President Trump’s leadership, will help define the 21st century.”