3-5-2024 (WASHINGTON) US President Joe Biden has stirred controversy by accusing Japan and India of economic challenges stemming from “xenophobia,” aligning them with rival nations China and Russia in their rejection of immigrants.
During a campaign fundraising event on May 1, Biden criticised the economic situations of China, Japan, Russia, and India, attributing their difficulties to anti-immigrant sentiments. The 81-year-old Democrat, seeking reelection against Republican rival Donald Trump in the November presidential vote, made these remarks at an event in Washington marking the beginning of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islanders Heritage Month.
Although such events are not recorded, a few journalists present provided written accounts of Biden’s speech. He emphasised the role of immigrants in driving economic growth in the United States, contrasting it with what he described as the restrictive policies of other nations.
Biden’s comments on Japan and India, both key US allies in Asia, came as a surprise to many. Since assuming office in 2021, Biden has prioritised strengthening ties with Asian allies, notably hosting state dinners for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, gestures of high-level diplomatic engagement.
The White House moved to mitigate the fallout from Biden’s remarks on May 2. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated that the president’s broader point was to highlight the United States as a nation built on immigration, emphasising the country’s welcoming stance towards immigrants. Kirby stressed that the president holds deep respect for US allies and values their friendship and contributions.
