“Every Country Has Stupid People”: Rubio Addresses Racism and Visas in Delhi
“Every Country Has Stupid People”: Rubio Addresses Racism and Visas in Delhi
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio tackles questions on racism and H-1B visa changes during his high-stakes visit to Delhi, calling the US-India bond vital.
During his high-profile visit to New Delhi, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio didn't hold back when faced with tough questions regarding racist remarks against Indians in the United States. In a tense exchange at a press meet, Rubio acknowledged the seriousness of the issue but pointed out that every country in the world has “stupid people.” He emphasized that the United States remains a very welcoming nation, deeply enriched by the contributions of the Indian diaspora, whose economic impact exceeds $20 billion annually. Rubio’s visit, which began in Kolkata, underscores the deep-rooted partnership between the two nations that Washington views as essential.
The Secretary of State also addressed growing concerns over changes to the American immigration system, particularly regarding J1, F1, and H-1B visas that many Indian tech professionals rely on. Rubio clarified that the ongoing modernization of the migration system is a global exercise and not specifically targeted at India. He noted that the United States has faced a migration crisis in recent years and emphasized that any policy changes are driven by national interests. Despite the recent overhaul, he reassured his audience that the ultimate destination is a better, more efficient system for everyone involved.
Amidst the serious policy discussions at Hyderabad House with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, the visit also had its lighter moments. US Ambassador Sergio Gor caught the spotlight with an India-inspired look that resonated with the local crowd. Throughout the meetings, Rubio reiterated that the relationship between India and the US is one of Washington’s most important global partnerships, rather than a simple “reset.” As the delegation-level talks concluded, both sides remained focused on boosting economic ties and navigating the complex landscape of global migration and security together.