Washington – Japan’s US embassy responded to comments made by President Joe Biden labeling Japan as “xenophobic,” calling them “unfortunate” and “not based on an accurate” understanding of the country. The remarks were made during a campaign fundraising event, where Biden claimed that Japan, along with India, China, and Russia, “don’t want immigrants.” The White House later clarified that Biden was highlighting US immigration policies and meant no offense.
The comment has sparked criticism from both US and foreign observers, with some questioning Biden’s understanding of Japan’s immigration policies. The embassy emphasized that Japan has loosened its traditionally strict immigration policies in recent years in response to a declining population.
Biden’s remarks come just weeks after he praised the US-Japan alliance as “unbreakable” during a state visit by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to Washington. The embassy noted that such visits strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
In response to Biden’s comments, China criticized the president, with columnist Chen Weihua accusing him of being “obsessed with smearing China.” India’s government did not directly address the comments, but economist and journalist Madhavan Narayanan stated that it was incorrect to suggest that India does not want immigrants, citing the country’s history of attracting a diverse range of individuals.
Opinion polls have indicated widespread dissatisfaction among US voters regarding Biden’s handling of immigration at the US-Mexico border. Despite the backlash, the White House reiterated that Biden’s comments were intended to underscore the importance of immigrants in strengthening the United States as a nation built on diversity and inclusion.