Outgoing American Ambassador Eric Garcetti highlighted the importance of visas and people-to-people contacts in strengthening India-U.S. relations. He noted the issuance of over one million visas to Indians in 2024 despite looming changes in immigration policy under President-elect Trump. Garcetti praised the Indian-American diaspora as a vital asset and reassured the commitment to enhancing bilateral ties through economic and educational exchanges.

On Monday, Outgoing American Ambassador Eric Garcetti emphasized the fundamental role that visas and interpersonal connections play in enhancing the bilateral relationship between India and the United States. He noted that in 2024, the U.S. embassy had issued over one million non-immigrant visas to Indians for the second consecutive year, with the current number of Indian visa holders in the U.S. exceeding five million. Garcetti, who will soon depart from his role, expressed optimism about the future ties of the two nations despite concerns about immigration policy changes under the new administration of President-elect Donald Trump.

During his final public lecture in a series focused on India-U.S. relations, Garcetti hinted at the necessity to counter negative sentiments by choosing proactive engagement methods over divisive rhetoric. He pointed to the significant economic and educational exchanges facilitating a robust relationship. The ambassador praised the four-million-strong Indian diaspora in the United States, referring to them as a vital asset in solidifying connections between both nations.

Garcetti reassured that the current administration had addressed and improved visa processing for Indian nationals, dramatically reducing wait times for almost all visa categories, excluding first-time visitor visas. He noted that as of 2024, India leads as a top contributor of international students to the United States, highlighting that more than 331,000 students are presently pursuing education within American institutions.

However, concerns linger regarding the implications of Trump’s incoming administration, specifically concerning the H-1B visa program, which predominantly benefits skilled Indian workers. Despite criticisms levied against the program for undermining employment opportunities for local workers, it was highlighted that Indian nationals account for more than 70% of H-1B visa recipients.

Acknowledging the collective desire for mutual growth, Garcetti stated, “Americans love Indians and Indians love Americans,” reflecting the strong sentiments underscoring the India-U.S. ties. He reiterated the importance of collaboration, suggesting that shared goals and investments in each other’s future reinforce the partnership between the two countries, fostering a more united global community.

The India-U.S. relationship has been marked by robust people-to-people contact and significant visa exchanges, fostering deeper mutual understanding and cooperation. Amidst anticipated shifts in immigration policies under Donald Trump, concerns have surfaced in India about potential restrictions that may impact skilled workers through programs like the H-1B visa. In this context, Garcetti’s remarks sought to reassure that the bilateral relationship has strong foundations supported by educational and economic exchanges, which are crucial for both nations’ prosperity. The ambassador’s emphasis on enhancing visa services underlines the effort to streamline and facilitate greater mobility for Indian nationals, solidifying the U.S. commitment to this partnership.

Eric Garcetti’s final remarks as Ambassador underscore the significance of visa programs and personal relationships in bolstering U.S.-India ties. The unprecedented issuance of over one million non-immigrant visas reflects a commitment to enhancing these connections, even as uncertainties loom with the incoming Trump administration. Garcetti’s optimistic vision highlights the benefits yielded from strong Indian-American diaspora ties, advocating for continued collaboration and mutual support in the face of divisive sentiments. Overall, the future of India-U.S. relations appears promising, buoyed by shared values and ambitions.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com

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