India Agrees To Take Back 18,000 Illegal Immigrants Amid Trump’s Trade Pressure

India has agreed to repatriate at least 18,000 of its citizens currently residing in the United States illegally, signaling its intent to cooperate with President Donald Trump’s administration. The move comes amid escalating trade tensions and Trump’s strong stance on countries failing to address illegal migration.

President Trump has been clear: countries that refuse to take back their illegal immigrants will face consequences. The administration has used the threat of tariffs and economic penalties as leverage to ensure compliance. Trump has also warned countries like China, Mexico, and members of the BRICS coalition Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa about potential trade repercussions if they undermine U.S. interests, including by moving away from the dollar.

“The idea that the BRICS Countries are trying to move away from the Dollar while we stand by and watch is OVER,” Trump stated on social media. “We require a commitment from these Countries...or they will face 100% Tariffs.”

India, aware of the stakes, is taking proactive steps to maintain strong economic ties with the U.S. and ensure the continuation of legal immigration pathways for its citizens.

India’s decision to work with the Trump administration goes beyond just addressing illegal migration. It aims to strengthen legal avenues for Indians to work and study in the U.S. According to Bloomberg, three-quarters of the 386,000 H-1B visas granted in 2023 were issued to Indian nationals. These visas are crucial for India’s skilled workforce to access U.S. opportunities.

Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, highlighted the broader goals of U.S.-India collaboration, stating, “As part of India-US cooperation on migration and mobility, both sides are engaged in a process to deter illegal migration. This is being done to create more avenues for legal migration from India to the U.S.”

India’s efforts to meet U.S. demands also align with its agreements with other countries. Facing domestic job shortages, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pursued migration agreements with nations like Israel, Japan, and Saudi Arabia to create opportunities for Indian workers abroad. Complying with U.S. expectations could set a precedent for India’s negotiations with other global powers.

India’s cooperation on this issue underscores the effectiveness of Trump’s firm policies. By leveraging economic incentives and consequences, the administration is making strides in addressing illegal immigration while reinforcing America’s dominance in global trade and diplomacy.

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