U.S. Senator Rubio announces intention to cancel visas for Chinese students.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Wednesday the commencement of revoking student visas for Chinese students, including those with ties to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in critical fields. In a statement titled "New Visa Policies Put America First, Not China," Rubio indicated that the State Department and the Department of Homeland Security would take a proactive approach in revoking these visas. Furthermore, the two departments intend to review visa criteria to bolster scrutiny of future visa applications from China and Hong Kong.
However, Rubio failed to specify when the measures would be implemented or delve into the specific "key fields" of study affected by the revocations. Local media reported that the Trump administration had temporarily halted the issuance of student visas while preparing to implement a new policy that would involve a more rigorous review of the social media accounts of applicants.
Rubio also sent a diplomatic cable to U.S. consulates, directing them to halt new appointments for student or exchange (categories F, M, and J) visa applications until new guidelines are issued. This is expected to occur within the following days.
China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Mao Ning, urged Washington to protect the rights of international students, specifically those of Chinese students. Ning asserted that cooperation in education and academic exchanges should not be disrupted, and she reminded the U.S. to respect the legal and legitimate rights and interests of all international students, including those from China.
Historically, critical fields of study have often encompassed science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), which are essential for technological innovation and national security. However, Rubio’s announcement did not provide a comprehensive list of the specific fields targeted by the revocations. The concern seems to focus on areas where the knowledge and skills gained by Chinese students might potentially benefit the Chinese government.
- The announced visa policies, led by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, could potentially impact Chinese students pursuing education-and-self-development in various fields, particularly those studying in critical areas like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as these are considered essential for technological innovation and national security.
- Amidst the escalating politics and policy-and-legislation surrounding student visas, it is important for the general-news media to thoroughly investigate and report on the specific average fields affected by the revocations, as the lack of a comprehensive list raises concerns about the potential impact on international students and the broader academic community.
