H1-B Visa Suspension: Google CEO Pichai, Twitter, Express Disappointment

After US President Donald Trump issued the proclamation temporarily suspending foreign work visas including H-1B, Indian origin Google CEO Sundar Pichai took to Twitter to express his disappointment.

"Immigration has contributed immensely to America's economic success, making it a global leader in tech, and also Google the company it is today," Pichai said adding that while he is disappointed with the proclamation, his company will "continue to stand with immigrants and work to expand opportunity for all."

Other tech giants on the American soil, namely Amazon and Twitter also made statements condemning the Trump administration's move. The tech industry in the US relies on the H-1B highly-skilled worker visas targeted by the proclamation (along with H-2B, J, and L visa programs) to fill open roles with foreign workers.

A Twitter spokesperson tweeted: "This proclamation undermines America's greatest economic asset: its diversity. People from all over the world come here to join our labor force, pay taxes, and contribute to our global competitiveness on the world stage."

In a statement provided to Business Insider, Amazon Inc said: "We oppose the Administration's short-sighted action." It further said that "Welcoming the best and the brightest global talent to the U.S. is more important than ever, and we will continue to support efforts that will preserve their ability to strengthen our economy."

Trump issued a presidential proclamation temporarily blocking those entering the country on H-1B visas, L visas, H-2B seasonal worker visas and J visas. The proclamation will come into effect on 24 June and will expire on 31 December.

"The entry of additional workers through the H-1B, H-2B, J, and L nonimmigrant visa programs, therefore, presents a significant threat to employment opportunities for Americans affected by the extraordinary economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 outbreak," read the order.

The order would not apply to "spouse or child of a US citizen, permanent resident, those involved with food supply chain, those who's entry is required in national interest".