Incoming US Ambassador Sergio Gor broached the possibility of an imminent trade deal with India during his Senate confirmation hearing on Thursday. He also highlighted the “deep friendship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump — noting that the POTUS had consistently praised the Indian leader even while critical of other nations. The top Trump aide claimed that the two countries were “not that far apart” on reaching a deal regarding tariffs.
“I do think it will get resolved over the next few weeks. We’re not that far apart on a deal on these tariffs. India is a strategic partner whose trajectory will shape the region and beyond. Under President Donald Trump’s strong leadership, I’m committed to advancing America’s interest in this important partnership,” Gor told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee during his confirmation hearing.
US President Donald Trump had imposed a whopping 50% tariff against India last month for its continued purchase of Russian oil.
Modi-Trump thaw
“Our president has a deep friendship with Prime Minister Modi, and that is something that is unique. In fact, if you have noticed, when he has gone after other nations, he tends to go after their leaders for putting us in that position and for the United States imposing those tariffs. While the President has been critical of India, he has gone out of his way to compliment PM Modi. They have an incredible relationship,” he added.
Lutnick reiterates Russian oil caveat
US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick struck a somewhat more cautionary note on Thursday — telling CNBC during an interview that a trade deal with India was likely under certain conditions. The top Trump aide reiterated the official stance on India purchasing Russian oil to underscore his point.
“Well, we’re going to sort out India (once it stops buying Russian oil),” he insisted.