NEW DELHI – Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the Trump administration's commitment to an 'America First' immigration policy during a recent visit to New Delhi, addressing concerns raised by Indian officials regarding the impact of U.S. visa reforms.

Rubio emphasized that the changes to U.S. immigration policy, which he described as a “modernization,” are driven by the need to prioritize American interests and address the ongoing crisis at the southern border. He acknowledged that these reforms may have a disproportionate impact on India, a key provider of skilled workers to the U.S. economy, but stressed that the policies are applied globally and are not specifically targeted at India.

“What I want to leave clear is that the changes, while they may be having a disproportionate impact on a place like India that provides so many high-skilled workers to the U.S. economy, it is not a system that is targeted at India,” Rubio stated, underscoring the administration's commitment to a fair and consistent application of immigration laws.

Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar expressed concerns about the challenges faced by legitimate travelers in obtaining visas. He urged that legal mobility not be adversely affected by efforts to combat illegal immigration, given its importance to business, technology, and research cooperation between the two countries.

“I apprised Secretary Rubio of challenges that legitimate travelers face in respect of visa issuance,” Jaishankar said. “While we cooperate to deal with illegal and irregular mobility, our expectation is that legal mobility would not be adversely impacted as a consequence. After all, this is very relevant to our business, technology , and research cooperation,” he added.

Rubio reiterated that the U.S. values its relationship with India as a strategic ally and vital trade partner. However, he maintained that every nation must prioritize its own national interests, including its immigration policy. The 'America First' approach, he argued, is essential for ensuring border security, protecting American jobs, and preserving national sovereignty.

“Everything that you do as a country needs to be in your national interest, and that includes your immigration policy,” Rubio said. He also highlighted the fact that the U.S. remains a welcoming country for legal immigrants, with approximately one million people becoming permanent residents each year.

The Trump administration's immigration reforms have focused on strengthening border security, reducing illegal immigration, and prioritizing skilled immigrants who can contribute to the U.S. economy. These policies are aimed at addressing the influx of illegal immigrants, which has strained resources and posed challenges to national security.

Rubio emphasized that the reforms are “long overdue” and necessary to adapt to the realities of the modern era. He cited the fact that over 20 million people have illegally entered the United States in recent years, creating a migratory crisis that demands immediate action.

“We are in a period of modernization, and I’ll be frank and honest with you, because it’s important to talk about this: We’ve had a migratory crisis in the United States,” Rubio said. “This is not because of India, but broadly, we had over 20 million people illegally enter the United States over the last few years, and we’ve had to address that challenge.”

The 'America First' immigration policy is not about closing the door to immigrants, but about ensuring that immigration serves the best interests of the American people. By prioritizing national security, economic prosperity, and the rule of law, the U.S. can maintain a sustainable and beneficial immigration system.