Donald Trump and Joe Biden: Who stand where on issues concerning India

All eyes are on the United States as it votes to choose its 46th President. Irrespective of who Americans pick — between Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Joe Biden — Indians hope that the amiable ties between the two countries will continue and no life-altering changes will be made.   

In the past too, any change in the administration at Washington has not necessarily translated into any major policy changes vis-a-vis India. 

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Here is a look at where Biden and Trump stand on key issues concerning India:

1. Foreign Policy

Trump considers China as its number one enemy, as the US is already in a trade war with the Asian giant. The Republican’s stand on China has helped India get some international leverage, more so after the ties between New Delhi and Beijing went south after the border standoff in eastern Ladakh. 

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Even Biden is critical of China and considers it as a fierce competitor. Biden, throughout his political career, has broadly supported the integration of the US and China. However, the former vice president looks set to support a policy for China that could be less friendly and more confrontational. He favours bringing down the unnecessary tensions between the two countries. 

2. Immigration

With his “Make America Great Again” campaign, Trump has repeatedly called for protectionists measures for Americans, a bid that makes it difficult for Indian-Americans to get work in the US. Recently, Trump also changed H1B visa rules, making it difficult for federal contracts and green card holders to get US citizenship. 

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While Democrat Biden sees Trump’s visa restriction policy as ‘racist’. He wants to ease the process of neutralisation for green cardholders and will work on reducing visa restrictions for other people to work in the US.  

3. Trade

Trump’s “America First” policy can further intensify if he gets elected for another presidential term. During his first term, Trump imposed trade tariffs on several nations, including India and China. 

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Biden has criticised Trump’s tariff war with China. He could review some tariffs imposed by the Republican President. However, it is on clear whether India will benefit from it or not. 

4. Studying in the US

The Trump administration in July unveiled a rule that would have prevented international students from re-entering the US, but it was rolled back after massive backlash. If Trump continues with his student visas and work opportunities policy, it will be bad news for Indian students. 

However, Biden, rather more liberal, is expected to allow more flexible post-degree work options for international students, including Indians, in the US.