New Delhi, October 11(HS): US ambassador-designate to India, Sergio Gor, commenced a six-day visit to New Delhi from October 9 to 14, shortly after his Senate confirmation earlier this week. Accompanied by Michael J. Rigas, Deputy Secretary for Management and Resources, Gor is engaging with Indian government officials on a broad range of bilateral issues aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations.

The visit has fueled speculation about a potential meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump during the upcoming ASEAN Summit in Malaysia later this month, particularly as both sides seek to address ongoing trade tensions, including tariff disputes and H-1B visa concerns.

While the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has not confirmed Modi’s attendance at the summit, he has been a consistent participant in ASEAN and East Asia meetings.The US Embassy in New Delhi clarified that Gor will not formally assume his ambassadorial duties during this visit, with his official presentation of credentials expected at a later, undetermined date.

Nevertheless, the visit underscores Washington’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with India and advancing stability, prosperity, and security across the Indo-Pacific region.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar