After nearly 20 years of anticipation, the US Consulate in Bengaluru officially opened its doors on Friday. This makes it one of the first twelve foreign consulates in the city. However, don’t expect it to handle visa applications right away. Eric Garcetti, the outgoing Ambassador to India, confirmed that visa services are coming soon but aren’t available just yet.
The opening took place at J W Marriott on Vittal Mallya Road, where the US Commercial Service (USCS) is now located. Garcetti emphasized the consulate’s future role in supporting tourism, education, and business connections between the two nations.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar was also present at the ceremony and praised the consulate as a significant milestone in US-India relations. He noted that Bengaluru, known as India’s tech capital, is set to lead the way in various areas like technology, space, and defence. “We are entering an era defined by innovation,” he said, highlighting Karnataka’s position as a hub for advanced industries.
Jaishankar shared insights about the efforts leading up to this milestone. During preparations for Prime Minister Modi’s state visit, the establishment of the consulate became a top priority, reflecting Modi’s strong support. He had told Garcetti, “If you get Bengaluru done, I’ll get Los Angeles done.” This indicates that an Indian consulate in Los Angeles will soon follow.
Garcetti recalled that Jaishankar raised the need for more US consulates in India during a preparatory meeting for the G20 Summit. Despite some bureaucratic challenges, the US government committed to this initiative, which was also noted in a joint statement from President Biden and Prime Minister Modi. “A promise made is a promise kept,” Garcetti stated.
Bengaluru is often referred to as the “Silicon Valley of India,” serving as a vital center for commerce, diplomacy, and technology. Garcetti pointed out that this new consulate represents a strengthened connection between India and the US, opening doors to collaboration in sectors like semiconductors, healthcare, and education.
The inaugural event was attended by several dignitaries, including Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar and lawmakers from the region.
The new US consulate is set to benefit many groups. American companies operating in Karnataka, business travelers, and tourists will find it easier to connect. For locals in Bengaluru and Karnataka looking to visit the US, this new consulate will save them a long journey of 300 km to the nearest consulate in Chennai for visa-related matters. Currently, Chennai processes around 450 applications a day from the southern region of Karnataka.
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