EAM Jaishankar Open to 'Legitimate Return' of Indian Nationals Abroad
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Synopsis
On January 23, EAM S. Jaishankar stated India's openness to the 'legitimate return' of Indian nationals living illegally abroad, including the US. He emphasized the importance of legal mobility while firmly opposing illegal migration.
Key Takeaways
- India is open to the legitimate return of its citizens living illegally abroad.
- EAM Jaishankar emphasized a consistent and principled stance on the issue.
- India supports legal mobility and the global opportunities for Indian talent.
- Illegal migration is viewed negatively due to its association with other illegal activities.
- The lengthy US visa waiting period is a concern in the bilateral relationship.
Washington, Jan 23 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar has clarified India's position, stating that New Delhi is open to the "legitimate return" of Indian nationals living illegally overseas, including in the US.
"We have always maintained that if there are any of our citizens who are not here legally, and we can confirm they are our citizens, we are always receptive to their legitimate return to India. This is not a stance exclusive to the US," EAM Jaishankar expressed during a press briefing in Washington DC on Wednesday (local time).
He affirmed that India's stance on this matter has been "consistent" and "principled", which he clearly communicated to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
"I recognize that there is currently some debate and sensitivity surrounding this issue. However, our position has remained steadfast and principled, and I made that abundantly clear to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio," he added.
EAM Jaishankar also stressed that India fully supports 'legal mobility' between the two nations and aspires for Indian skills and talent to have ample opportunities on a global scale.
"India firmly opposes illegal migration, as it is not 'reputationally good' and often leads to various illegal activities," he stated.
"As a government, we are very much in favor of legal mobility because we believe in a global workplace. We want Indian talent and skills to have the maximum opportunities globally," the EAM emphasized.
"Simultaneously, we are firmly against illegal mobility and migration because illegal activities often accompany such actions... It is undesirable and certainly not good for our reputation... We maintain this stance with every country, including the US," he elaborated.
During his discussion with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the Foreign Minister highlighted the extensive waiting period for obtaining US visas, stating that it does not serve the relationship positively.
"I also mentioned to Rubio that while we understand this situation and accept that these are independent processes, facilitating legal and mutually beneficial mobility is in our best interest. If there is a waiting period of around 400 days to obtain a visa, I don't believe this relationship is being served well. I think he acknowledged that point as well," he added.
EAM Jaishankar represented India at the inauguration of US President Donald Trump and carried a message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed to President Trump.
Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th US President on January 20.
