‘Absolutely incredible’: US Ambassador Sergio Gor praises Kerala backwaters on first visit

Alappuzha: US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor praised Kerala's famed backwaters during his maiden visit to the state, describing the experience as "absolutely incredible" and saying he hoped to return.

Speaking to reporters in Alappuzha on Saturday, Gor encouraged more people to visit Kerala and said his one-day visit had been memorable.

"I'm visiting this state for the first time. We had an absolutely incredible time visiting the backwaters here. It's a great place to visit. I highly encourage a lot of other people to (come) here and visit. We only got to spend one day here, but I look forward to coming back. Our morning started with a meeting with the Chief Minister. We had a very good meeting with the Chief Minister and a lot of areas where we can work together between India and the United States," Gor said.

Gor, Satheesan discuss cooperation

Gor also met Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan in Kochi. In a post on X, the ambassador described the meeting as a "warm and insightful conversation" and said the discussions focused on higher education, technology and port infrastructure.

The two sides discussed expanding joint research, university partnerships and academic exchanges between institutions in Kerala and the US.

The discussions also covered wellness and Ayurveda tourism, the possibility of developing 'Sister Cities' partnerships, and investment opportunities at Vizhinjam International Seaport and Kochi Port.

Areas identified for potential cooperation in the maritime sector included shipbuilding, ship repair, green bunkering and supply chains.

The Kerala government also proposed setting up a dedicated desk in the US to connect prospective investors, support US businesses, and engage with the Malayali diaspora.

Both sides expressed interest in turning the proposals into long-term partnerships.

Trump son-in-law Michael Boulos visits Alappuzha

Meanwhile, Michael Boulos, businessman and son-in-law of US President Donald Trump, made an unannounced visit to Alappuzha and took a houseboat cruise through the backwaters amid heavy monsoon rain.

Gor welcomed Boulos to Kerala in a post on X, writing, "Welcome back to India @MichaelZBoulos! Thrilled to have my friend join me in Kerala."

Despite the heavy rain, Boulos spent time exploring the backwaters, drawing attention in Alappuzha, widely known for its canals, lakes and traditional houseboats.

Nehru Trophy Boat Race ahead

Boulos' visit comes ahead of the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, scheduled to be held in Alappuzha on August 22.

The event is one of Kerala's major cultural and sporting attractions and draws visitors to the state's backwaters each year.

(With ANI inputs)