india

Issues of illegal migration will be discussed: Mukesh Aghi ahead of PM Modi’s US visit

On PM Modi's official working visit to the US, President and CEO of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Mukesh Aghi said, "This is a very important visit. Basically, the visit is all about ensuring that geopolitical alignment continues. The understanding between the two countries on trade is going to be critical. Economic agenda and focus on technology transfer is going to be critical and obviously there are issues of illegal migration that will be discussed. I think it's important early on that the PM meets with President Trump at least they're aligned in common objectives as driving the growth of both economies to a higher level...It is also about setting up expectations as to what direction you want to drive this relationship. Will they discuss trade, absolutely they will discuss trade? Will they agree to move forward on some kind of trade partnership? Absolutely..." On the issue of Indian citizens living illegally in the US deported to India handcuffed, he says, "...I empathize that they should not be handcuffed and chained as they're moving. But you have to understand there's a law and the example is Strauss-Kahn, the IMF chief who was arrested in New York City and he was running for President of France. He was arrested. He was put in handcuffs. Why? Because that's the law? So I think if there's a law, they're following that law and they're not making exceptions to anybody. The MEA has made an appeal and others have talked to it. Hopefully, there'll be some empathy and sympathy towards the process

first published: Feb 9, 2025 08:00 pm