US Secretary of State Marco Rubio strongly defended Indians against racist comments during a tense press conference in New Delhi on Sunday, saying that “every country has stupid people.”
Rubio made the remarks while addressing media questions alongside India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during his official India visit.
The exchange happened after a journalist asked Rubio about alleged racist remarks made against Indians in the United States. The question referred to a controversial social media post previously reshared by US President Donald Trump that described India negatively.
Marco Rubio Responds to Racist Remarks Against Indians
When asked about the issue, Rubio first questioned who exactly made the comments.
After the reporter replied that the post had been widely seen online, Rubio said he would “take that very seriously.”
“Every country in the world has stupid people,” Rubio said during the press conference.
He added that offensive comments made online do not represent the values of the United States.
“There are stupid people in the United States that make dumb comments all the time,” Rubio stated.
The US Secretary of State also emphasized that America remains a welcoming country for immigrants and highlighted the important contributions made by the Indian community in the US economy and society.
Rubio Praises Indian Community in America
Rubio praised the achievements of Indians living in the United States and acknowledged their growing economic influence.
“Our nation has been enriched by people who come from all over the world and contribute,” he said.
He also noted the strong contribution of the Indian diaspora to the American economy and said Washington wants that partnership to continue growing.
The comments come at a time when immigration and visa policies remain major topics in India-US relations.
Rubio Addresses H-1B Visa and Immigration Concerns
Responding to concerns about H-1B visas, student visas, and immigration rules affecting Indians, Rubio clarified that the US immigration overhaul is a global process and not targeted specifically at India.
According to Rubio, the United States is trying to modernize its immigration system after facing major migration challenges in recent years.
“It is not a system targeted at India,” Rubio explained.
He added that every country has the right to shape immigration policies based on national interest while still welcoming talented professionals and students.
India-US Strategic Partnership in Focus
Rubio’s visit to India included high-level talks with Narendra Modi and S. Jaishankar.
The discussions focused on strengthening India-US strategic ties, trade, defence cooperation, and global security challenges.
US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor later shared a message on social media reaffirming Washington’s commitment to stronger ties with India.
“Our strategic partnership with India is real. We have incredible potential ahead,” he said.
Rubio’s remarks defending Indians quickly gained attention online, with many social media users praising his direct response to racism and his support for the Indian diaspora.
