'Fully prepared to bring back illegal migrants': Modi in US
What's the story
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced India's willingness to bring back its citizens illegally residing in the United States. The announcement was made during a joint press conference with US President Donald Trump. "India is fully prepared to bring back those who are verified as Indian citizens and are living illegally in America," he said.
Deportation issue
Modi addresses recent deportation controversy
The announcement came after the recent deportation of 104 Indians from the US, which had stirred controversy over the manner of their return. Modi said that many of these people belong to ordinary families who were misled by human traffickers with false promises. He emphasized the need for India and the US to work together in dismantling the human trafficking networks behind such illegal immigration.
Anti-trafficking efforts
Modi seeks Trump's support against human trafficking
Modi further said he was confident of President Trump's support to eliminate this "ecosystem" of human trafficking. He said, "Our bigger fight is against that entire ecosystem, and we are confident that President Trump will fully cooperate with India in finishing this ecosystem." Apart from immigration issues, Modi also thanked Trump for agreeing to extradite Tahawwur Rana, who was convicted for his role in 2008 Mumbai attacks.
Bilateral agreements
Trade and energy agreements dominate discussions
The leaders also discussed trade and energy agreements, with Trump announcing a significant energy import deal that would make the US a leading supplier of oil and natural gas to India. They also agreed on developing a trade route connecting India, Israel, Italy, and the US. Modi announced plans to enhance people-to-people ties by opening new Indian consulates in Los Angeles and Boston. He invited American universities to establish offshore campuses in India.