India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau recently held discussions on reducing trade barriers, fostering a balanced trade relationship, and enhancing cooperation in defense and technology. The conversation also addressed issues related to illegal immigration to the United States, according to a statement from the US Department of State.
Deputy Secretary Landau expressed appreciation for India’s assistance in tackling illegal immigration and urged continued cooperation on the matter. “They discussed ongoing efforts to reduce barriers to achieve a fair and balanced bilateral trade relationship, strengthen collaboration in defense and technology, and boost security and prosperity throughout the Indo-Pacific region,” said US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce.
The talks came ahead of the US decision to impose reciprocal tariffs on India, set to take effect on April 2.
During the meeting, Misri congratulated Landau on his recent confirmation by the US Senate and extended an invitation for him to visit India. “The Foreign Secretary underlined the deepening convergence of India-US strategic interests and the significance of the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.
Both sides also discussed growing bilateral trade, defense, and technology collaborations, along with mobility and migration concerns. “Both sides agreed to remain engaged on matters of mutual concern,” the MEA added.
Addressing concerns over illegal immigration, the US embassy in India recently canceled approximately 2,000 visa appointments that had been booked using automated bots, reiterating its strict stance against agents violating visa scheduling policies.
In a post on X, the US embassy emphasized its zero-tolerance policy: “Consular Team India is canceling about 2000 visa appointments made by bots. We have zero tolerance for agents and fixers that violate our scheduling policies.”
