Marco Rubio, S Jaishankar hold talks to 'address' concerns related to 'irregular migration'

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Tuesday held talks to address concerns over irregular immigration, alongside a broader agenda to strengthen the U.S.-India partnership.

Secretary Rubio emphasized the Trump Administration’s commitment to collaborating with India on resolving migration-related challenges, the State Department said in a statement.

ET has learnt that the two countries are working together to identify and repatriate around 20,000 individuals, even as the US intensifies its crackdown on undocumented immigrants under President Donald Trump’s aggressive immigration agenda.

Also Read: Trump backs competent foreign talent, says 'H-1B system lets the best people in'

The discussions come as President Trump, who was sworn in on January 20, rolled back guidance for US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), broadening the scope of enforcement to target not just serious criminals but also migrants with final deportation orders.

The 47th president’s immigration policies have placed a high priority on deportations, as seen in his announcement to end birthright citizenship too, though this would require Congressional approval.

Jaishankar and Rubio, in their first bilateral as part of Trump government, also discussed a wide range of topics critical to the US-India relationship. Both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening ties across key areas, including critical and emerging technologies, defence cooperation, energy collaboration, and efforts to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific region, the State Department said.

"Secretary Rubio also emphasized the Trump Administration’s desire to work with India to advance economic ties and address concerns related to irregular migration," said Tammy Bruce, spokesperson for the State Department.

Focus on Indian nationals and H-1B visas
While discussions are on with the US on addressing illegal immigration, New Delhi is also hoping for Trump to continue the H-1B visa program, which is critical for Indian skilled workers. Indians accounted for three-fourths of the 3,86,000 H-1B visas granted in 2023.

However, the administration’s stance on immigration regulations suggests a potential tightening of policies, including constraints on work visas and limitations for international students.

Also Read: India-US in talks to repatriate 20k migrants

US President Donald Trump expressed his nuanced stance on the H-1B visa program during a press briefing at the White House on Tuesday, stating he supports welcoming skilled professionals into the country while acknowledging the concerns of critics who argue the program affects American jobs.

I like both sides of the argument, Trump said. But I also like very competent people coming into our country, even if that involves them training and helping other people that may not have the qualifications they do. I don't want to stop — and I'm not just talking about engineers, I'm talking about people at all levels.