Nirupama Rao shares concerns with US senator over immigration reforms

Washington: India’s Ambassador to the US Nirupama Rao has flagged the concerns of the Indian companies on the proposed immigration reforms in her meeting with a top American Senator here.

“Highlighting the rapidly growing trade and economic engagement between India and the United States, Rao conveyed her deep appreciation to Senator (Robert) Menendez for his support for high-skilled immigration, an issue of significant interest for Indian businesses in the United States,” Indian Embassy spokesman M Sridharan said in a statement on Wednesday.

In her meeting with Senator Menendez, Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Tuesday, Rao also discussed the bilateral relationship with the US lawmaker who in his current capacity plays a key role in shaping the US foreign policy.

During the meeting, Rao and Menendez exchanged views on the latest developments in India-US relations and highlighted the shared values and interests binding their strategic partnership.

Menendez, the Democratic Senator from New Jersey, is also a member of the bipartisan group of eight Senators — called the gang of eight — who have tabled the comprehensive immigration reform bill in the Senate last week.

The two expressed appreciation for the strength provided to this partnership by the rich and vibrant contributions of the Indian American community in the United States.

Rao also exchanged views on the regional situation in South Asia and extended an invitation to Menendez to visit India, the press statement said.

PTI