In a recent press briefing, Matthew Miller, the spokesperson for the US Department of State, highlighted the significant efforts undertaken by US consular teams to process a large number of visa applications in India. Miller emphasized that this initiative has been deemed a “top priority” by the US government, acknowledging that there is still more to be accomplished.
He affirmed that the US values the partnership with India, considering it one of the most consequential relationships and emphasizing their collaboration on vital priorities. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to the US from June 21-24, the topic of diplomacy, immigration, and visa issues was raised. Miller responded by reiterating the commitment of US consular teams to expedite visa processing in India, particularly in visa categories crucial to the bilateral relationship. He stressed that while progress has been made, there is a continuous focus on further improvements. Regarding the overall expectations from the visit, Miller deferred to the White House for any potential announcements. During the press briefing, Miller underlined the significance of the US-India partnership, stating that the two nations work closely on critical matters.
PM Narendra Modi is scheduled to be hosted by US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden at a state dinner at the White House. Additionally, PM Modi will address top US company CEOs at the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington and deliver a joint meeting speech to the US Congress for the second time. PM Modi expressed his honor in accepting the invitation and anticipation for addressing the US Congress on June 22. This commitment to facilitating travel and education between the US and India was echoed by US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti in a recent speech at the US Embassy in India. Garcetti emphasized the strength of the US-India relationship, highlighting the significant number of Indian students studying in the United States.
He noted that in 2022, one out of every five US student visas was issued to Indian students, reaffirming India’s position as the leading source of international students for the US. Garcetti commended the US Mission in India for their efforts and expressed confidence that this trend would continue. The joint efforts by the US consular teams and the strengthening of educational ties between the two countries illustrate the commitment to enhancing the US-India relationship. The upcoming visit of PM Narendra Modi is expected to further deepen the partnership and foster cooperation on various fronts, including diplomacy, immigration, and education.