India-US trade deal 'almost' finalized in principle: Sergio Gor
What's the story
The India-US trade agreement is "almost" finalized in principle, according to US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor. He made the announcement at The Economic Times World Leaders Forum on Saturday. Gor said that the remaining work mainly involves reconfiguring certain parts of the agreement's text. He clarified that the delay in finalizing it was due to legal and technical language still being worked out.
Tariff debate
Gor clarifies difference between Trump and Congress on tariffs
Gor also clarified the difference between a bipartisan push in the US Congress for tariffs on countries buying Russian oil and the Donald Trump administration's position.
The proposed legislation could impose 100% tariffs on countries buying Russian oil.
Gor said this was being "pushed by the Congress in a very bipartisan way," but added that it wasn't something you would see President Trump advocating for.
Diplomatic ties
Personal friendship between Trump, Modi
Gor emphasized the personal friendship between Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling them both results-driven and action-oriented leaders.
He said, "Our President has tremendous respect for the Prime Minister."
The ambassador also recalled how Modi stood by Trump after his 2020 presidential election defeat.
Gor said this was a time when true friendships were revealed, highlighting the mutual trust that strengthened their relationship.
Strategic importance
India matters to us, says Gor
Gor stressed the strategic importance of India to the US, citing visits by senior US officials as proof.
He said, "India matters to us, and we want to have the highest individuals from our government being here and participating."
Secretary of State Marco Rubio spent five days in India in May and will return for another multi-day visit this October.
Gor said such visits were unprecedented for them.