Japan Responds to Biden's "Xenophobic" Label
Japan has expressed its disapproval of U.S. President Joe Biden's recent remarks labeling the country as "xenophobic" for its immigration policies. Through diplomatic channels, Japan conveyed its disappointment that some of Biden's comments were not based on a comprehensive understanding of the nation's policies.
Japanese officials took the opportunity to explain the measures the government has implemented to welcome foreign workers, as well as to share the country's perspective on the issue.
Biden's comments, made during a campaign fundraising event in Washington, attributed the U.S. economic growth partly to its welcoming stance towards immigrants. He then proceeded to label Japan, along with three other countries, as "xenophobic" due to their immigration policies.
"Why is China stalling so badly economically? Why is Japan having trouble? Why is Russia? Why is India? Because they're xenophobic. They don't want immigrants," Biden stated. He further emphasized the positive impact of immigration, stating that "Immigrants make us strong. We have an influx of workers who want to be here and just contribute."
These remarks came shortly after Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's state visit to the United States, where he reaffirmed the strong alliance between the two nations.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre attempted to clarify the president's statement, emphasizing his intention to highlight the importance of the United States as a "country of immigrants." She denied any negative impact on the U.S.-Japan relationship, stating that "The U.S.-Japan relationship is an important relationship. We share a commitment to democratic values and strong (bonds) of friendship between our peoples.