UMVA has learned that Secretary of State Marco Rubio has strongly defended President Donald Trump's immigration reform, amid rising concerns from Indian officials and media that the new U.S. visa and immigration policies may severely limit migration from India.
Rubio pushed back against criticism during a Sunday news conference in New Delhi, India, emphasizing that the changes, although potentially having a disproportionate impact on India, are not targeted at the country. "It is one that’s being applied globally," he stressed.
India’s foreign minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar responded with concerns of his own, apprising Rubio of the challenges faced by legitimate travelers in obtaining visas. Jaishankar expressed hope that legal mobility would not be adversely impacted, highlighting the importance of this issue to India’s business, technology, and research cooperation with the U.S.
Rubio, a son of Cuban immigrants, underscored that the U.S. values India as a "strategic ally" and vital trade partner, but emphasized that immigration policy must prioritize America’s national interest under Trump’s "America First" agenda.
The Secretary of State proudly noted that the U.S. is the most welcoming country in the world on immigration, with around a million people becoming permanent residents each year and contributing greatly to the economy. He cited the significant investments made by Indian companies in the U.S., totaling over $20 billion.
Rubio attributed the changes in the U.S. immigration system to a much-needed modernization process, describing it as a long-overdue reform to address the realities of modern times. He cited the massive migratory crisis in the U.S., with over 20 million people illegally entering the country in recent years.
Rubio urged India to be patient during the adjustment period, warning that any reform would create temporary friction points and difficulties. However, he expressed confidence that the new system would be more efficient and beneficial for people from India seeking to work and innovate in the U.S.
The Secretary of State also addressed allegations of anti-India racism in America, dismissing them as the work of "stupid people" and reaffirming the U.S. as a welcoming nation enriched by immigrants from around the world.
Rubio concluded that the U.S. and India would emerge stronger, with a more efficient immigration system that works better for both countries.
