“Donald Trump’s visa policy proposal would hurt the United States if applied to international exchange and education. New visa requirements are not needed and are counterproductive. Exchange visitors already go through extensive screening before coming to the United States and are tracked by program sponsors once they are here. Exchange participants significantly deepen their bonds to our country and strengthen our economy as a result of their stay. Rather than erect new barriers, we should welcome exchanges between Americans and people living in countries that are critical to our national security. The United States has done that previously after World War II, September 11, and other difficult times. We urge all candidates to focus efforts on expanding public diplomacy and fostering more people-to-people connections.”
– Ilir Zherka, Executive Director, Alliance for International Exchange