India Criticizes U.S. Suspension of PERM Program for Microsoft, Others

India criticized the United States on Friday after the U.S. government suspended Microsoft and other companies from the Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) program, which is used for permanent work-based immigration applications.

India described the decision as contrary to the shared ambitions of the two countries in a foreign ministry statement. The U.S. government suspended multiple companies from the program Thursday.

The action comes as Washington and New Delhi continue discussions over tariffs, Russian oil purchases and protections for India’s agricultural sector. The countries’ trade relationship has faced pressure as negotiations continue.

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said Thursday that a trade agreement with India was not imminent. Negotiators continue to address the issues blocking an agreement.

The PERM suspension adds an immigration issue to the broader U.S.-India discussions. Greer previously said a trade agreement was not imminent after a call between the countries’ leaders.