Marco Rubio Says US Immigration Policy Based On ‘National Interest’; Jaishankar Raises Visa Concerns

Last Updated:May 24, 2026, 13:22 IST

The U.S. Secretary of State said the country was currently undergoing a period of transition as immigration reforms are implemented.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said ongoing immigration reforms in the United States are guided by “national interest" and are not specifically targeted at India, while acknowledging the significant contribution made by Indians to the American economy.

Speaking on the immigration issue, Rubio said the changes were part of a broader effort to modernise the US immigration system for the future.

“It’s or India being a target… It applies to work at large ( on immigration issue)," Rubio said, while adding that U.S. immigration policy was based on “national interest".

He also recognised the economic role played by Indians in the United States, stating, “I accept contribution Indians have made in US Economy. 20 Billion Dollars invested in US Economy."

Referring to illegal immigration, Rubio said the United States had seen a large number of unauthorised entries in recent years.

“We had 20 millions people illegally entered United States. This is true for every country in the world. US is the most welcoming country in the world," he said.

Rubio also referred to his family background while defending the need for reforms. “My parents entered as permanent residence. But it has to be a process," he added.

The U.S. Secretary of State said the country was currently undergoing a period of transition as immigration reforms are implemented.

“US is currently undergoing process of reforming. Anytime u undertake a reform, change in the system…their are going to be period of transition and friction," Rubio said.

“We are modernising us immigration system for 21st century. We are gonna come up with system more beneficial," he added.

This comes after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said he had taken up with his US counterpart, Marco Rubio, the challenges that legitimate travellers face in securing a US visa. He made the remark as the duo addressed a joint press conference following delegation-level bilateral talks earlier in the day.

“I apprised Secretary Rubio of the challenges legitimate travelers face in visa issuances. While we cooperate on combating illegal migration, our expectation is that legal mobility will not be adversely impacted," he said.

News india Marco Rubio Says US Immigration Policy Based On ‘National Interest’; Jaishankar Raises Visa Concerns

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