'He’ll Be Up, He's like Me': US Ambassador Sergio Gor Highlights Trump-Modi Rapport and Upcoming Trade Deal

US Ambassador Sergio Gor shared a backstage anecdote illustrating the close personal friendship between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting that the two nations are close to finalizing a major trade deal.

Last Updated : Tuesday, 30 June 2026
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Washington: During a recent event hosted by the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), US Ambassador Sergio Gor shared an anecdote highlighting the close personal rapport between US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

What US Ambassador Gor had said?

While attending a UFC fight event in Miami a few months ago, Gor said that the President Trump spontaneously expressed a desire to call Prime Minister Modi from backstage. When the Ambassador reminded him that it would be approximately 6:00 AM in India, Trump smiled and replied that He will be awake as he is an early riser. Although the phone call was ultimately deferred to the following day, Gor noted that the exchange underscores the deep friendship between the two leaders, where formal scheduling is often secondary to their direct connection.

What he said upon PM Modi?

Gor mentioned a recent evening's discussion with US President Donald Trump in Miami. In the discussion he said that when i asked Trump that it's 6:00  AM of Morning in India. Then he replied that "He'll be up. He's like me."
He further added, "Trump deeply cared about this relationship. He truly considers Modi a friend"

"As I mentioned, the trade deal -- we're close to getting it done... pretty much the last three weeks we've had travels back and forth," he continued.

How India holds a special place for Trump?

Ambassador Gor emphasized that President Trump fondly remembers his previous visits to India. Landmark events from his first term, such as 'Howdy Modi' and 'Namaste Trump,' played a significant role in strengthening bilateral ties. The Ambassador added that Trump remains keen on visiting India during his second presidential term.

Why the next two years crucial for US-India relations?

The US Ambassador noted that both administrations are heavily focused on actionable outcomes rather than mere rhetoric. The next two years are projected to be critical in shaping the future of US-India relations. Decisions made in the near term regarding trade, investment, defense, and technology are expected to lay the groundwork for a robust strategic partnership that will endure for decades.