India Not Targeted in US Visa Crackdown, Rubio Assures Jaishankar

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held important bilateral talks in New Delhi during Rubio’s four-day visit to India. The meeting focused on strengthening defense, security, economic, and energy cooperation between India and the United States, along with discussions on major global and regional issues. During the joint press conference, both leaders highlighted the growing strategic partnership between the two countries. They discussed developments in West Asia, the Indian subcontinent, East Asia, the Gulf region, and the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The two nations also reviewed the recently renewed 10-year Major Defence Partnership Framework Agreement and the new Underwater Domain Awareness Roadmap aimed at improving maritime cooperation. One of the key issues raised by Jaishankar was the difficulty faced by Indian citizens in obtaining US visas. Responding to these concerns, Rubio clarified that the recent changes in America’s immigration and visa system are not specifically aimed at India. He explained that the reforms are part of a broader modernization process being implemented globally. Rubio acknowledged the strong contribution of Indians and Indian companies to the US economy, noting that Indian investments in the United States exceed $20 billion. Rubio further stated that the US has been facing a major immigration crisis, claiming that more than 20 million people entered the country illegally in recent years. According to him, the new immigration reforms are intended to create a more efficient and sustainable system. He admitted that the transition phase may create temporary difficulties for travelers and visa applicants worldwide. Sharing a personal example, Rubio mentioned that his parents migrated to the United States from Cuba in 1956, emphasizing that immigration has always strengthened America. However, he stressed that immigration systems must evolve according to modern realities and national interests. The US Secretary of State also praised India, calling it one of America’s most important strategic partners. He said the relationship between the two democracies is based on shared democratic values and common global interests. Rubio emphasized that India and the United States continue to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors, reflecting the growing importance of their partnership on the world stage.