On February 23, 2024, Indian and US officials met in New Delhi for the 11th bilateral Consular Dialogue. The Indian delegation, led by Dr. K.J. Srinivasa, Joint Secretary (CPV) in the Ministry of External Affairs, hosted the US delegation led by Ms. Rena Bitter, Assistant Secretary (Consular Affairs) in the US State Department. The Dialogue reinforced the strong people-to-people ties and cooperation that both countries share across consular issues of mutual interest.
Both sides discussed ways of enhancing cooperation on a wide range of issues such as extradition, mobility of students and professionals, safe and legal migration, protection of vulnerable women and children and enabling smooth travel of their respective nationals.
They welcomed the launch of a pilot in the US to adjudicate domestic renewals of certain categories of work permits; and the opening of the Indian Consulate in Seattle as proactive steps towards strengthening the robust peoples’ connect between the two countries.
Both sides agreed to hold the next Consular Dialogue in the US next year.
