Quad Key as US Envoy Sergio Gor Flags Deeper India-US Push in Indo-Pacific, Critical Minerals Deal Soon

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, in his first public appearance in India, said on Friday that the Quad will be central to a deeper India-US partnership in the Indo-Pacific. Without naming China, he said that Washington and New Delhi are stepping up cooperation to ensure that materials vital for advanced manufacturing, energy systems and modern technology are not used as leverage against either economy, and that no nation is held hostage.

Speaking at the India Today Conclave in New Delhi, Gor said, “The two countries were seeing stability in bilateral relations at a time when many parts of the world were facing uncertainty. “Around the world, these forces are testing institutions, reshaping economies, and challenging governments to adapt. But in the relationship between the US and India, we are seeing something different. Instead of breakdowns, we are seeing breakthroughs.”

The US Ambassador dropped a big hint that Quad is being revived. “Security cooperation remains a cornerstone of our partnership. India is a crucial partner in the Quad, which promotes maritime security, resilient supply chains and technological cooperation across the Indo-Pacific. One of my goals is to revive the Quad, which in the last administration had taken the backseat.”

He said that across the United States, the Trump’s administration economic policies have sparked trillions of dollars in new investment. “That investment is being amplified by partnership with trusted allies and partners across the Indo Pacific, such as India,” he added. The Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) is a diplomatic partnership between US, Japan, Australia and India.

Another highlight of his speech was an indication that both countries are actively working on critical minerals supply chain cooperation deal. He told the gathering that both countries are likely to enter into a critical minerals’ agreement soon. “One of the most important areas of cooperation between our countries is critical minerals. Reliable and diversified supply chains for critical minerals are indispensable to both economic growth and national security,” Gor said.

He added, “I am very pleased to say that the US and India are moving very close to finalizing a critical minerals agreement that will help secure the supply chains needed for advanced manufacturing, energy systems and emerging technologies. Stay tuned, but in the next few months, we expect a big announcement on that front.”

In his speech, Gor also highlighted growing cooperation in talent and skills between the two countries under the Trump Administration. Referring to the recent inauguration of first semiconductor assembly and testing facility by US chipmaker Micron he said, “We are already seeing what this cooperation can achieve. Just recently I was in Gujarat with Prime Minister Modi as Micron opened a new headquarters and celebrated their first semiconductor assembly right here in India. A major milestone for India’s semiconductor ambitions and for our broader technology partnership,” he said. “The Micron investment strengthens supply chain’s resilience, expands advanced manufacturing in India and demonstrates how American companies and Indian talent can work together to build industries of the future. And so, while Micron is opening up in Gujarat, at the same time, they’re opening up in Syracuse, New York. That is a win-win,” he added.

On defense, Gor said ties between the two countries, once centered mainly on arms sales, are now moving towards a deeper and more broad-based partnership. “Co-production, joint research, and industrial collaboration. Together, we are exploring opportunities in advanced engines, unmanned systems, and expanded maintenance and repair operations right here in India. This collaboration strengthens both of our defense industrial bases while enhancing stability across the region,” he said.

Gor also called for closer cooperation in emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence. He said, “Artificial intelligence is transforming the global economy at an extraordinary speed. The countries that adopt and deploy these technologies effectively will shape the era of growth and innovation.”

He also invited India to join the American tech stack. “By working with American AI technology stacks, partner nations can build on the most advanced technologies in the world while keeping sensitive data within their own borders. At the same time, innovation flourishes when it is open.”

Gor linked the growing momentum in ties to the personal chemistry between the top leaders of the two countries. Referring to the recently concluded trade deal, Gor said, “The only two dealmakers were President Trump and Prime Minister Modi. Their deep and personal friendship got the deal done.”

He described the agreement as a “win-win” for both countries and said the relationship under President Donald Trump had the “potential to reach historic heights and deliver results on a scale we have never seen before.”