Sergio Gor formally took charge as the United States’ Ambassador to India on Monday, signalling a renewed push to strengthen bilateral ties, as he announced that India will be invited next month to join the U.S.-led eight-nation “Pax Silica” framework aimed at securing the global silicon and semiconductor supply chain. He also expressed optimism that long-pending India–U.S. trade negotiations would regain momentum soon.
Mr. Gor, who is yet to present his credentials to President Droupadi Murmu, struck an upbeat note on relations during an unconventional “arrival address” from the steps of the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi. Acknowledging recent strains over tariffs, trade disputes and India’s imports of Russian oil, he said the partnership remained anchored at the highest political levels.
“The United States and India are bound not just by shared interests, but by a partnership that can withstand disagreements,” Mr. Gor said, adding that both sides were determined to resolve differences and move forward. He noted that discussions on a trade agreement- first launched during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington nearly a year ago- were continuing, despite losing momentum after the U.S. imposed steep tariffs on Indian goods. The talks have included several formal rounds and multiple visits by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to the U.S.
Describing India as a key but complex partner, Mr. Gor said the proposed induction into Pax Silica would expand cooperation in semiconductors, critical minerals and artificial intelligence. India was not part of the original Pax Silica launch in Washington in December, which included Japan and Australia from the Quad, I2U2 partners Israel and the UAE, and countries such as South Korea, Singapore, the UK and the Netherlands.
The Ambassador said he hoped the U.S. President would visit India “soon”, possibly within the next year or two. A visit had earlier been anticipated around a Quad summit, which India is keen to host.
Mr. Gor’s high-profile arrival and public remarks marked a break from diplomatic convention, as ambassadors typically avoid public engagements before presenting their credentials. His welcome featured a large gathering of embassy staff and media, live telecast coverage, and music played as he entered the embassy complex.
He begins his tenure amid lingering sensitivities in India-U.S. ties, including New Delhi’s rejection of claims that Washington mediated the India-Pakistan conflict in May 2025, and differing narratives on trade and energy issues. Mr. Gor confirmed that trade negotiators from both sides were scheduled to hold another call this week.
Appointed as both U.S. Ambassador to India and Special Envoy for South and Central Asia, Mr. Gor’s regional engagements- particularly any outreach to Pakistan and Bangladesh- are expected to be closely watched in New Delhi as he assumes office.
Namaste! Today marks my first day at the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi. I am honored to join this dedicated team and eager to get to work advancing President Donald Trump’s priorities and deepening the U.S.-India partnership. I couldn’t be more optimistic about the days ahead for… pic.twitter.com/GEoa9iIm99
— Ambassador Sergio Gor (@USAmbIndia) January 12, 2026