In the worst setback to Indo-US ties since Devyani Khobragade’s case turned into a full blown diplomatic row, US energy secretary Ernest Moniz cancelled his visit to India to attend the annual dialogue on energy cooperation between the two countries.
State Department Spokesperson Jen Psaki said, “in order to find a time to allow both sides to deliver on the important issues that we need to from both sides, we’re looking for a mutually convenient time in the near future that will permit both sides to do that.”
This comes as a US court refused Khobragade’s request to extend the January 13 deadline for her indictment.
Khobragade was transferred to India’s Permanent Mission to the UN, but she is yet to receive a clearance from the US. More than 20 days after the UN submitted it, America continues to ‘review’ the visa application of Khobragade, which would give her full diplomatic immunity. The unusual delay has upset Indian officials.
India has ratcheted up pressure on the US to send a message that it means business.
External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid said India is not doing anything except what is appropriate on the reciprocal arrangements.
The American embassy has been asked to give the details of how much is the local staff paid, new ID cards have been issued to consular staff and diplomats, privileges given to them would be based on the tradition of diplomatic reciprocity.
But despite the strong message, the US is taking its time.
