Trump Says US–India Trade Deal ‘Very Close’ as Sergio Gor Sworn In as Ambassador

Washington, Nov 2025: US President Donald Trump on Monday said that the United States is “very close” to finalising a new trade agreement with India, signalling a renewed phase of economic engagement between the two nations. The President made the remarks at the swearing-in ceremony of Sergio Gor, the new US Ambassador to India, held in the Oval Office.

Trump described the upcoming agreement as significantly different from previous trade arrangements with India, asserting that the new deal would be “fair” and mutually beneficial. “We are making a deal with India—much different than we had in the past. We’re getting a fair deal, just a fair trade deal. We’re getting close… I think we’re pretty close to doing a deal that’s good for everybody,” Trump said.

The President used the occasion to highlight the depth of the US–India partnership and praised his personal rapport with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Calling India one of America’s most vital international relationships, Trump emphasised the strategic importance of New Delhi in global geopolitics.
“We have a fantastic relationship with Prime Minister Modi,” he said. “India is home to one of the world’s oldest civilisations and the largest country in the world. It is one of our most important international relationships, and Sergio will help strengthen it even more.”

Vice President JD Vance administered the oath of office to Gor, while senior members of the Trump administration, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, were present. Gor, 38, is the youngest American ambassador ever appointed to India and is among Trump’s closest aides. As the former Director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office, he was responsible for overseeing the vetting of more than 4,000 positions in the administration.

Trump praised India’s rapidly expanding middle class and its growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. He described the country as an “amazing nation” and a key American economic and security partner.
“It’s also the fastest-growing middle class in the world, and an important strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific. It’s an amazing country,” Trump added.

Vice President Vance also extended warm wishes to Gor, underscoring the administration’s admiration for India. “You’re going to be a great ambassador and a great representative to the country of India, which the President and I both love,” he said.

Gor, expressing gratitude to Trump for placing trust in him, said he was honoured to take on the responsibility at a crucial time in bilateral relations. “I’ve been at your side for many years, and I will continue to be there. It’s an incredible honour, and I look forward to enhancing the relationship between our two nations,” Gor said.

Gor’s appointment comes at a time when both nations are working to resolve tariff-related disagreements and deepen cooperation in defence, technology, and Indo-Pacific security. His tenure is expected to focus on advancing trade negotiations, expanding strategic partnerships, and strengthening people-to-people ties between the world’s two largest democracies.

The President’s remarks signal optimism that both countries are moving toward a breakthrough on trade—an area that has seen friction in recent years. With Gor now officially assuming his role in New Delhi, officials on both sides expect accelerated diplomatic engagement in the months ahead.

Team Maverick.