India has underscored the importance of facilitating the movement of skilled professionals between India and the US, highlighting the mutual benefits for both nations.
This statement comes amidst a heated debate over H-1B visas, with prominent figures like President-elect Donald Trump and Elon Musk weighing in.
Elon Musk, in a recent social media post, defended the H-1B visa programme, stating, "The reason I'm in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla, and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H1B."
He added, "I will go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot possibly comprehend."
The debate has revealed divisions among Mr. Trump's allies.
While some view the H-1B programme as vital for the tech industry, others argue it poses a threat to American jobs.
Mr. Trump, despite previously signing an executive order to restrict access to such visas, has expressed support for the programme.
India's foreign ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, emphasized the strong economic and technological partnership between the two countries.
He stated that the mobility of skilled professionals is a cornerstone of these ties, noting the significant contributions of Indian professionals to the US economy and tech industry.
"Our countries have a strong and growing economic and technological partnership, and within this ambit, mobility of skilled professionals is an important component," Mr. Jaiswal said at a press conference. "India-US economic ties benefit significantly from the technical expertise of skilled professionals, leveraging their strengths and competitive value. We look forward to further deepening our economic ties for mutual benefit."
The numbers reflect this dynamic: India accounted for approximately 78% of the 265,777 H-1B visas issued by the US in the fiscal year ending September 30, 2023, underscoring the critical role of Indian professionals in the US tech sector.
As US-India ties strengthen under Mr. Trump's administration, India's Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has already met with Mr. Trump's transition team to discuss economic and strategic cooperation.
Bilateral trade between the two countries grew by 7.65% to USD 129 billion in 2022-23, further cementing their partnership.
Ultimately, the movement of skilled professionals remains a vital aspect of the US-India economic and technological relationship.
As both nations navigate this complex issue, the focus remains on mutual benefits and enhanced collaboration.