US Ambassador Sergio Gor hails ‘U.S.-made aircraft in Indian sky’ as symbol of strong India–US ties on Republic Day

Republic Day: US ambassador calls ‘U.S.-made aircraft in Indian sky’ a symbol of deepening India-US ties

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor on Sunday extended Republic Day greetings, calling it an honour to attend the parade for the first time and highlighting the deepening strategic partnership between New Delhi and Washington.

In a post on X, Gor said he was “honored to attend the Republic Day Parade for the first time,” describing it as a celebration of India’s Constitution and democratic spirit. He also drew attention to U.S.-made aircraft participating in the flypast, calling it “a powerful symbol of the strength of the U.S.-India strategic partnership.”

Happy Republic Day, India! Honored to attend the Republic Day Parade for the first time, a celebration of India’s Constitution and democratic spirit. Thrilled to see the U.S.-made aircraft soaring in the Indian sky, a powerful symbol of the strength of the U.S.-India strategic…

— Ambassador Sergio Gor (@USAmbIndia) January 26, 2026

The message comes amid renewed diplomatic engagement between the two countries, even as trade tensions persist. On Sunday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held talks with a visiting U.S. Congressional delegation, with discussions focusing on trade, security cooperation and broader geopolitical challenges.

The meeting assumes significance as India–US ties remain under strain following Washington’s decision to impose a 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods, including a 25 per cent punitive levy linked to India’s purchases of Russian oil. Trade negotiations between the two sides have remained stalled amid the tariff dispute.

However, US President Donald Trump has struck an optimistic tone on the future of bilateral trade ties. Speaking to Moneycontrol earlier this week, Trump praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and indicated that a trade agreement with India remains firmly on the agenda.

“I have great respect for your Prime Minister. He’s a fantastic man and a friend of mine. We are going to have a good deal,” Trump said, signalling potential progress despite recent trade frictions.

The exchange of messages and high-level engagements around Republic Day underline efforts by both sides to stabilise relations and push forward strategic and economic cooperation.