Telangana News

According to a noted US expert on South Asian issues, Donald Trump's administration would build on progress made in Indo-US ties and be less tolerant of Pakistan's "dual policies" on terror, but H-1B visas issue could be a potential area of friction with New Delhi.

"It seems likely that a Trump administration will build on the marked progress made in US-India relations over the last couple of years," Lisa Curtis of the Heritage Foundation, a top American think-tank said.

She further added that, US has a bipartisan recognition that India plays an important role when it comes to achieving American objectives in the Asia Pacific, namely ensuring a rules-based international order and free and open seaways.

"President-elect Trump made several positive comments about India on the campaign trail, which seems to reflect his support for bolstering the partnership,"  Curtis said.

Trump's tougher stance on terrorism, in general, according to Curtis, will find favor among Indians, who are wary of attacks by Pakistan-based terrorist groups. "It is expected that a Trump administration will work more closely with India on combating terrorism in the region and will be less tolerant of Pakistan's dual policies toward terrorism," Curtis said.

Opining that, H-1B is a potential area of conflict between the two countries, Curtis further added, "It is still unclear how Trump's global business background will impact on his commitment to protect American workers."

"He has both acknowledged the importance of allowing high tech companies to access global talent, while also pointing out potential flaws and misuse of the H1-B visa program. His administration may seek some changes to the H1-B visa requirements, but is unlikely to do away with the program completely," Curtis said.