NEW DELHI: Ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit, the Congress on Sunday asked whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi would raise with him the issue of easing H-1B visas, restoration of GSP status and security concerns over Taliban.
Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala asked why Prime Minister Modi is silent about "India First" as President Trump talked of "America First".
He also asked whether Modi would ensure cheaper oil for India after it stopped buying oil from Iran in view of sanctions and if Indian steel exports would get a boost after India commits to $3 billion defence purchases.
"Trump Government's restrictive immigration policies have hit H-1B visas. Indians get 70% of 85000 H-1B Visas.
"Now, Rejection Rate for India has increased from 6% in 2015 to 24 pc in 2019, especially for IT professionals. Post 10 million people gala event, Will PM Modi ask for easing H-1B visas," he asked on Twitter.
Trump Govts restrictive immigration policies have hit H-1B visas. Indians get 70% of 85000 H-1B Visas Now,Rejecti… https://t.co/J0dUISvQj3
— Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) 1582425600000
Surjewala said as US prepares to sign a deal with Taliban on February 29, what about India's red lines.
"Have we forgotten IC-814 hijacking and release of terrorist Masood Azhar in Kandhar, who's JeM then attacked Parliament and Pulwama? As gala bash unfolds, Will Modiji raise our National Security concerns," he said.
US prepares to sign deal with Taliban on 29Feb. What about Indias red lines! Have we forgotten IC814hijacking & r… https://t.co/QxAI1Z1p7Z
— Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) 1582426800000
The Congress leader said continuing since 1974, the US removed India from Duty Free Imports i.e GSP (generalised system of preferences) on 5 June, 2019.
It has affected the $5.6 billion Indian exports to the US, especially gems, jewellery, rice, leather, he noted.
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