Washington, May 16: Former U.S. Ambassador to India, Richard Verma, has warned that issues such as tariffs, reductions in student visas, and decreased cooperation in clean energy are pushing India-U.S. relations into a challenging phase. Despite these concerns, he described India as one of America’s “most important partnerships” of this century.
Speaking at the Council on Foreign Relations’ 2026 International Affairs Fellowship keynote, Verma noted that while relations have significantly grown over the past 25 years, they now face new pressure points.
“The architecture and significance of this relationship are crucial for U.S. national security. As former President Obama stated, it is the most vital partnership for America in this century,” Verma emphasized.
Currently serving as Chief Administrative Officer at Mastercard and a former Assistant Secretary of State, Verma pointed out that since President Bill Clinton’s visit to India in 2000, Washington has established one of its fastest-growing strategic partnerships.
He highlighted the growth in defense trade from zero to $20 billion and two-way trade soaring from $20 billion to over $200 billion. Additionally, he noted that the number of Indian students in the U.S. has increased, making them the largest group of foreign students. However, he acknowledged that these partnerships are now under pressure.
“India and Brazil were the only two countries facing a 50% tariff, which was somewhat perplexing. Immigration has decreased, and obtaining student visas has become more difficult. While clean energy cooperation has not entirely ceased, it has diminished,” Verma stated.
His comments come amid rising concerns among Indian students and technology professionals regarding the stringent U.S. visa policies and restrictions during the Trump administration’s second term.
During the discussion, Verma mentioned a significant decline in Indian student visa approvals, specifically referencing the F-1 student visa. “I believe the approval rate for Indian students has dropped by 60-70%,” he noted.
He warned that countries like Australia, Canada, Japan, Germany, and the UK are aggressively competing for international students. “They want these students because they understand the contributions they can make to American society,” Verma added.
The former ambassador also predicted that India will remain a focal point in the global power balance over the next decade. “By 2030, India will have the largest middle class, the highest number of college graduates, and the most internet users,” he stated.
Verma reiterated the strategic logic behind close U.S.-India cooperation, referencing past U.S. presidents. He recalled President Dwight Eisenhower’s prediction that a close friendship between the U.S. and India would make the world a safer place.
Verma also mentioned President Kennedy’s assertion that India’s fate would determine the future of Asia.
When asked about India’s aspirations for permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council, Verma emphasized the need for reforms in global institutions to reflect new geopolitical realities. “These institutions require significant reform. We need to determine not only how to structure the Security Council but also how to make it a place where real solutions to problems can be found,” he stated.
He underscored the growing collaboration between India and the U.S. in new technologies, particularly in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and essential minerals. “If you think about bringing these incredible research scientists together, whether in space, seabed exploration, AI, or medicine, it can be truly powerful,” Verma concluded.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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