No change in Narendra Modi's visa issue: US

WASHINGTON: The US on Friday made it clear that there was "no change" in its stand of not granting visa to Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, but said he was welcome to apply and the case would be reviewed on merits.

"There is no change (in US policy)... he (Modi) is welcome to apply. All visa decisions are made on a case by case basis, and I'm not going to prejudge it here," State Department spokesperson Victoria Nuland told reporters here.

Responding to questions on the invitation extended to Modi by a delegation of US lawmakers last week, Nuland said there is no change in US policy.

"With regard to Mr Modi, our lines have not changed here. He is welcome to apply," she said.