External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s openness to the “legitimate return” of its nationals living illegally abroad, including in the United States, while also emphasizing the importance of supporting legal mobility between nations. Speaking at a press conference in Washington DC on Wednesday, Jaishankar clarified that India’s stance on the issue has been “consistent” and “principled.”
“We have always maintained that if any of our citizens are living abroad illegally and we are certain of their citizenship, we are open to their legitimate return to India. This is not a position unique to the United States,” Jaishankar said.
The minister added that he had conveyed India’s position on this matter to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, acknowledging the current sensitivity surrounding the debate in the United States. “We have been consistent, principled, and clear about our position, and I conveyed that very clearly to Secretary Rubio,” he stated.
Jaishankar also highlighted India’s strong support for legal mobility, emphasizing the role of Indian talent and skills in the global workforce. “As a government, we are very supportive of legal mobility because we believe in a global workplace. We want Indian talent and skills to have the maximum opportunity at the global level,” he said.
However, the minister underscored India’s firm opposition to illegal migration, citing its negative consequences, including association with other illegal activities. “Illegal migration is not desirable. It is certainly not reputationally good, and it often leads to a host of other illegal activities,” he added.
During his meeting with Secretary Rubio, Jaishankar also addressed the long waiting periods for US visas, calling it a challenge to the bilateral relationship. “I told him that while we understand the processes, it is in our mutual interest to facilitate legal and mutually beneficial mobility. If it takes 400 days to get a visa, it does not serve the relationship well,” Jaishankar remarked, noting that Secretary Rubio acknowledged the concern.
Jaishankar’s visit to Washington included his representation of India at US President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20. The External Affairs Minister also delivered a personal letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to President Trump, who was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States.
