India and US Actively Engaged in Trade Negotiations, Says New American Ambassador

India and the United States are continuing to actively engage in negotiations over a long anticipated trade agreement, according to Sergio Gor, the newly appointed US ambassador to India. Speaking during his visit to New Delhi, Gor said discussions between the two sides remain ongoing and constructive, despite recent public disagreements over the pace of progress.

Gor said a further call to discuss the trade deal was scheduled for Tuesday, although he did not specify which officials would be involved or what issues would be prioritised. His comments were intended to signal momentum in talks that have faced repeated delays amid political sensitivities and complex economic interests on both sides.

The ambassador emphasised the broader political relationship underpinning the negotiations, describing the personal rapport between Donald Trump and Narendra Modi as genuine. Gor said strong personal ties at the leadership level help manage differences, adding that real friends may disagree at times but ultimately find ways to resolve disputes.

Trade talks between India and the US have been under discussion for several years, covering issues such as market access, tariffs, digital trade and agricultural products. While both sides see strategic value in closer economic cooperation, negotiations have often stalled due to disagreements over protectionist measures and domestic political pressures.

Gor’s remarks come shortly after comments from some US officials suggested that India was responsible for slowing progress toward a deal. Those claims were firmly rejected by New Delhi, which said it remains committed to negotiations but insists any agreement must be balanced and protect domestic interests. Indian officials have repeatedly stressed that trade talks cannot be rushed at the expense of long term economic stability.

Analysts say the renewed emphasis on engagement reflects the broader strategic context of India US relations. As global supply chains shift and geopolitical competition intensifies, Washington views India as a key economic and strategic partner in the Indo Pacific region. For India, deeper trade ties with the US could support growth, investment and technology transfer, but not at the cost of undermining local industries.

Gor sought to downplay recent tensions by framing disagreements as a normal part of negotiations between major economies. He said both sides are working through differences in good faith and remain focused on finding practical solutions. While details of the next phase of talks remain unclear, officials on both sides have indicated a willingness to continue dialogue.

Business groups in India and the US are watching developments closely. Many companies see significant opportunities in expanded trade, particularly in technology, manufacturing and services. However, uncertainty over timelines and policy direction has led to caution, with firms reluctant to make major commitments until clearer signals emerge from negotiators.

The ambassador’s visit to Delhi is part of his early efforts to establish relationships with Indian policymakers and business leaders. Diplomats say such outreach is crucial for building trust and maintaining momentum, especially when negotiations become politically sensitive.

Despite past setbacks, both governments continue to publicly affirm the importance of a trade agreement. Whether current talks will finally bridge long standing gaps remains uncertain, but Gor’s comments suggest that neither side is prepared to walk away.

As negotiations continue, expectations remain tempered. While a comprehensive deal may still be some distance away, incremental progress could help stabilise economic ties and reinforce the broader partnership between the world’s two largest democracies at a time of global uncertainty.