Secretary of State Marco Rubio responded to concerns from Indian officials regarding U.S. visa and immigration reforms that may affect migration from India. During a news conference in New Delhi, Rubio stated that the changes are not specifically targeted at India but are part of a global application of immigration policy. He acknowledged that the reforms may disproportionately impact India, which provides many high-skilled workers to the U.S. economy.
India's Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar expressed concerns about the challenges legitimate travelers face regarding visa issuance and emphasized the importance of maintaining legal mobility for business and cooperation in technology and research.
Rubio reiterated that U.S. immigration policy must prioritize American interests, stating, "Everything that you do as a country needs to be in your national interest, and that includes your immigration policy." He highlighted that the U.S. remains a welcoming country for immigrants, with approximately one million people becoming permanent residents each year.
Rubio also noted that Indian companies have invested over $20 billion in the U.S. economy and emphasized the need for modernization of the immigration system to address current challenges, including a migratory crisis. He urged India to be patient during the reform process, acknowledging that transitions can create difficulties but expressing confidence that the new system will ultimately be more efficient and beneficial for those seeking to enter the U.S. from India.
He also addressed allegations of anti-India racism in the U.S., advising India to disregard comments from individuals he described as "stupid people," and reaffirmed that the U.S. has been enriched by immigrants from around the world.