Washington: Sergio Gor, President Donald Trump's close aide and nominee for the post of US Ambassador to India, emphasised the critical importance of the US-India relationship during his Senate Foreign Relations Committee testimony on Thursday, calling India "one of the most important relationships our nation has in the world."

In his opening remarks, Gor stated, "India is a strategic partner whose trajectory will shape the region and beyond." He highlighted India's geographic position, economic growth, and military strength as essential to regional stability and global prosperity.

"Under President Donald Trump's strong leadership, I'm committed to advancing America's interests in this important partnership. India's geographic position, economic growth and military capabilities make it a cornerstone of regional stability and a critical part of promoting prosperity and advancing the security interests that our nations share," he said.

Referring to Secretary of State Marco Rubio's remarks, Gor added, "As Secretary Rubio noted, India is one of the most important relationships our nation has in the world. If confirmed as ambassador, I will work to deliver on the presidential agenda and advance US interests by increasing our defence cooperation, ensuring fair and beneficial trade, deepening energy security and furthering technology. If confirmed, I will prioritise deepening defence and security cooperation with India."

Gor outlined key priorities, including expanding joint military exercises, advancing co-development and co-production of defence systems, and concluding critical defence sales. "These efforts will enhance collaboration between our forces, while supporting American defence manufacturers and making America more prosperous," he noted.

He also discussed immense opportunities in sectors like artificial intelligence, pharmaceuticals, and critical minerals—highlighting India's populous market and rapidly growing middle class. However, he acknowledged challenges from India's protectionist policies and pledged to advocate for reforms to make Indian markets more accessible and transparent.

"I will work to advance trade that is fair, reciprocal, and beneficial to American workers and businesses," Gor pledged. He further emphasised President Trump's "Mission 500" goal of doubling bilateral trade to USD 500 billion by 2030, aimed at expanding American exports and job creation.

Gor highlighted countering China's economic influence as crucial, stating, "Improving US-India trade ties will not only bolster US competitiveness but also reduce China's economic leverage over other nations."

In technology, he referenced the US-India Trust Initiative launched earlier this year, designed to compete with China in AI, quantum computing, and semiconductors. "I will advance this administration's AI Action Plan, which will ensure the dominance of American AI technology in India and globally," he said.

Energy cooperation is another key focus, with Gor promising to increase American energy exports to India, making the US a leading supplier of crude oil, petroleum products, and LNG.

Concluding, Gor stressed the strategic importance of a stable South Asia, where India plays a central role: "A stable South Asia is in the interest of the United States and all the nations. President Trump's leadership and the US-India partnership will define the 20th and 21st centuries. It is only by working together that we can make that aspiration a reality."

He committed, "If confirmed as ambassador, I will work to ensure the United States remains a global leader, while fostering a partnership that benefits both nations. I look forward to working with you all to achieve these goals."

With inputs from ANI