President Joe Biden recently made remarks at a campaign fundraising event where he criticized Japan and India for their immigration policies, labeling them as 'xenophobic' countries that do not welcome immigrants. He compared them to China and Russia, contrasting their economic circumstances with that of the United States.
Despite these comments, it is important to note that both Japan and India are key partners of the United States. Japan, a critical U.S. ally, recently celebrated an 'unbreakable alliance' with the U.S. during a visit by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Similarly, India, one of the world's fastest-growing economies, has been recognized as a vital partner in the Indo-Pacific region.
President Biden emphasized the importance of immigrants to the strength of the United States, stating that their contributions play a significant role in the nation's prosperity. He highlighted the thriving U.S. economy as a result of welcoming immigrants who want to contribute to the country.
While there was no immediate reaction from the Japanese or Indian governments regarding Biden's remarks, White House officials clarified that the President was making a broader point about the U.S. stance on immigration and the value of alliances and partnerships with allies.
Japan has been grappling with a shrinking population, prompting the government to make policy shifts to attract foreign workers. On the other hand, India faces challenges due to its rapidly growing population, with recent citizenship laws sparking debates over religious criteria for naturalization.
President Biden's comments coincided with the start of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, underscoring the significance of diversity and inclusion in American society. The President's remarks, while sparking debate, shed light on the complexities of immigration policies and their impact on global relations.
