US Envoy Visits Manipur, Praises Modi's Northeast Development Focus

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor visited Manipur on Friday, meeting with state leaders and praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's development focus for the northeastern region. The visit, which included stops at the historic Kangla Fort and the Khwairamband Ema Keithel market, occurred amid ongoing ethnic tensions in the state. During separate meetings with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh in Imphal, Ambassador Gor described Manipur as a stunning place with remarkable natural beauty. He expressed happiness that Prime Minister Modi was focusing on the development of Northeast India, noting it was particularly important for a diverse country like India. The US Ambassador also highlighted the relationship between Prime Minister Modi and US President Donald Trump. According to a statement from the Manipur government, Gor said there was a special bond between the two leaders beyond the normal Prime Minister-President relationship, and that President Trump personally cherished it. Chief Minister Khemchand Singh invited the Ambassador to the upcoming Manipur Sangai Festival 2026, scheduled for November 21-30.