'Can't be CEO in America if not Indian': US envoy

NEW DELHI: US ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, has emphasized the remarkable success of Indian immigrants in the United States, noting that over 10% of Fortune 500 company CEOs are Indian immigrants who studied in the US. In a statement that underscores the change in corporate America, Garcetti said, "The old joke was you could not become a CEO in the US if you are Indian, now the joke is you cannot become a CEO in America if you are not Indian, whether it is Google, Microsoft or Starbucks, people have come and made a big difference."

During an interview at the American Center, the envoy highlighted the US's commitment to fostering people-to-people ties, particularly through educational exchanges, which he described as having the potential to "last a lifetime." Garcetti revealed that the US mission in India is gearing up to handle an increased number of student visa applications this year, reflecting a continuing trend of rising interest among Indian students in American education.

Further commenting on the visa process, Garcetti recalled President Joe Biden's directive to reduce visa wait times for Indians, saying, "He did! It is the first time, I think in American history that a President has told an ambassador—get those visas waiting time down." The ambassador also noted the enthusiastic support for this initiative among Americans who are keen on strengthening ties with India.

Highlighting the depth of the educational ties, Garcetti noted, "I think nothing ties our countries and our people together, more than our exchange students." He elaborated on the profound impact of these exchanges, explaining how they facilitate mutual understanding and respect between the two nations.

The ambassador also touched on the logistical challenges of reducing visa wait times but framed these challenges as positive indicators of the strong desire among Indians to engage with the US. Last year, the US issued a record 140,000 student visas to Indian applicants, the highest in the world, demonstrating the significant demand and the successful efforts of US consular services to meet these needs.

Garcetti’s comments were made during a pre-departure orientation for Indian students at the American Center, highlighting the ongoing commitment to fostering educational exchanges that build long-lasting relationships between India and the United States.