New Delhi: Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated on Friday that the movement of talent generates significant value for both the Indian and American economies. His comments followed the US Department of Labor's decision to suspend Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) applications for certain companies.
While addressing the media, Jaiswal clarified that the suspension does not directly invalidate existing H-1B visas or alter the legal status of visa holders and their dependents. However, he acknowledged that the policy shift could create hurdles in the permanent residency or green card pathway for eligible workers employed by affected firms.
Highlighting the broader economic implications, Jaiswal emphasized that skilled migration offers substantial advantages to the United States. He noted that American businesses rely on this talent pool for advanced innovation, research, productivity, and market competitiveness, which ultimately drives job creation and builds shareholder wealth.
India expects all stakeholders to recognize these mutual economic benefits, the spokesperson added, describing the recent US measures as contrary to the shared ambitions of both countries. The government remains closely engaged in tracking further updates regarding the situation.
In addition to the PERM developments, the MEA strongly objected to recent remarks made by the US Vice President regarding Indian professionals, characterizing the commentary as unwarranted and offensive. Jaiswal defended the community as highly skilled and educated contributors to the American economy and innovation ecosystem, while cautioning against language carrying painful colonial and historical connotations.