India, IOM Discuss Expanding Regular Migration Pathways

Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh met with IOM Director General Amy Pope on Friday, May 8, 2026, to discuss expanding and diversifying regular migration pathways. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the second International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) of the Global Compact for Migration (GCM) at the United Nations.

The discussions focused on India's proactive approach to the implementation of GCM and IOM activities in India, according to Mr. Singh. IOM is the leading UN-related intergovernmental organisation in the field of migration, established in 1951 to promote humane and orderly migration.

Mr. Singh also met with Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship of Canada Lena Metlege Diab to discuss the Canada-India Migration Initiative and areas of mutual interest in mobility of skilled workforce and students.

The Indian delegation, led by Mr. Singh, is participating in the Second International Migration Review Forum, being held under the auspices of the UN General Assembly from May 4-8. The meeting with IOM Director General Amy Pope is part of India's efforts to engage with international organisations on migration-related issues.

The UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and Mr. Singh had a productive meeting on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at the UN headquarters. Mr. Singh also delivered India's national statement at the Plenary session of the IMRF and addressed a side-event organised by the Permanent Mission of India to the UN. The next steps will involve follow-up discussions and implementation of the agreements reached during the meeting, with the Indian delegation expected to continue engaging with international organisations on migration-related issues.