Trump, Modi talked H1-B visas |
In the first conversation between the two since Donald Trump was sworn in as US President, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed India`s concerns on proposed changes to the H1B visa programme, official sources told The Indian Express. The issue was raised by Modi during their phone conversation on January 24, with Trump responding that India`s views would be given “consideration”. The US President also raised the issue of the South China Sea, and America`s interest in ensuring freedom of navigation in international waters claimed by the Chinese as their own. Sources said the H1B issue was also raised by Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar during his two trips to New York during the Trump transition process. They said that Jaishankar met the then-Vice President-elect Mike Pence and former US Congress Speaker Newt Gingrich, who is now one of Trump`s advisors. The White House readout, issued on January 25, stated: “During a call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, President Trump emphasized that the United States considers India a true friend and partner in addressing challenges around the world. The two discussed opportunities to strengthen the partnership between the United States and India in broad areas such as the economy and defense.” They also discussed security in the region of South and Central Asia.
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