US Secretary of State Defends India Amid Controversy
Marco Rubio Addresses Allegations of Anti-India Sentiment
Marco Rubio speaks to journalists before boarding his flight at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi on Monday. (Photo:PTI)
New Delhi, May 25: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Monday that President Donald Trump holds India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in high regard, aiming to counter claims of increasing anti-India sentiment in the United States.
Rubio's comments emerged amid a growing controversy following a viral video of his response to a reporter's inquiry about alleged racism directed at Indians in the US.
While the reporter's question lacked clarity, many interpreted it as a reference to Trump's previous remarks labeling India and China as "hellholes," suggesting that he accused individuals from these nations of misusing America's birthright citizenship.
"The President is a strong supporter of India and Prime Minister Modi. My presence here is a testament to that, as is the appointment of someone like Sergio (Gor) as our ambassador, who is closely aligned with the President," Rubio explained.
Rubio made these statements when questioned by a journalist about the ongoing controversy, which hinted at Trump's contentious comments regarding Indians.
Interestingly, the US State Department shared Rubio's remarks addressing the racism issue on a social media platform but later removed the question.
Rubio mentioned that he had specifically asked the reporter for clarification, but received no response.
"In today's digital age, there are numerous voices online, and it's hard to discern their authenticity or identity," he remarked.
He suggested that the reporter's inquiry might have been influenced by online commentary.
The reporter had stated, "Numerous racist remarks have emerged from the US targeting Indians and Indian-Americans, contradicting the foundational principles of the India-US relationship. What is your perspective on this?"
In response to the reporter's assertion, Rubio noted, "Every nation has its share of foolish individuals."
Currently, Rubio is on a four-day visit to India aimed at strengthening bilateral relations that have faced challenges since mid-2022.