US envoy buoyed after 'incredible' Modi meet

TRUMP ACOLYTE SERGIO GOR HOPEFUL OF BETTER TIES

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Newly confirmed US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor used his first meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to talk trade, defence and critical minerals, as the nations seek to amend soured ties.

Relations between the world’s two largest democracies have plummeted in recent months over tariffs, ongoing negotiations for a trade deal and policy changes like an annual $100,000 fee for H-1B skilled worker visas.

Flashpoint

President Donald Trump has raised pressure on India which, for decades, had been courted by both parties in the US as a counterweight to China.

Trump imposed among the heftiest tariffs in the world on India, punishing it for purchasing Russian oil which, Washington, says helps finance Moscow’s war in Ukraine.

Ahead of his confirmation by the Senate last week, Trump acolyte Gor had voiced hope for keeping India in US good graces.