Prof Dr Joybrato Mukherjee, President of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), comments on the temporary halt to the allocation of US visas for international students and doctoral candidates.

"The currently announced suspension of deadlines for US visas for international students and doctoral candidates is a step backwards for international academic mobility and reduces the attractiveness of the USA as an academic location. Education and research thrive on exchange and openness - especially across national borders. The US government is thus continuing a policy of compartmentalisation in the field of science that is directed against international cooperation and the interests of many universities in their own country.

At the same time, we recognise with great respect how US universities - including renowned institutions such as Harvard - are taking legal action against these measures. We strongly support these efforts and continue to rely on the ability of the American rule of law and its independent courts to protect research and academic freedom.

For Germany, one thing is clear: our universities are open to international students and doctoral candidates. As a centre of science and innovation, we are attractive to talented people from all over the world. The DAAD and other funding organisations offer excellent students a wide range of scholarships - this should be expanded in a targeted manner in light of current developments. Such an expansion would be a strategic contribution to strengthening Germany as a centre of science, innovation and business - and a clear commitment to academic freedom and the recruitment of skilled workers.

The DAAD will discuss the current developments with its member universities this week.

The DAAD also offers up-to-date information on the situation in the USA on its website. With the support of the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space, the DAAD will be expanding its information and counselling services on developments in the USA for students, researchers and universities in Germany in the coming days. For German students and doctoral candidates in the USA, our DAAD office in New York is also available for advice and information."