Japan and India have both issued statements in response to recent comments made by U.S. President Joe Biden during a campaign fundraising event. Biden referred to Japan and India as 'xenophobic' countries that do not welcome immigrants, along with Russia and China. Both Japan and India have expressed their disagreement with this characterization.
Japan, a key U.S. ally, emphasized that Biden's assessment was not based on a correct understanding of its immigration policies. The country has been working to ease restrictions on foreign workers in recent years to address its declining birth rates and shrinking population. Japan also highlighted its strong alliance with the U.S., as reaffirmed during a recent visit by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
India, on the other hand, defended itself as the 'world’s most open society,' rejecting the label of being xenophobic. Indian Prime Minister Narenda Modi's state visit to the U.S. last year underscored the positive relationship between the two countries. India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the country's annual GDP growth rate of 7% and highlighted its diverse and inclusive society.
The White House clarified that Biden's comments were not intended to offend Japan or India and were meant to underscore the strength of the U.S. as a nation of immigrants. The U.S. president hosted both Japanese and Indian leaders in recent months to strengthen ties and address shared security concerns, particularly related to China's activities in the Indo-Pacific region.
While Japan and India have different approaches to immigration, both countries have taken steps to address demographic challenges and promote economic growth. Japan's evolving immigration policies aim to attract foreign workers, while India's recent citizenship law has specific provisions for refugees from neighboring countries.
Overall, the responses from Japan and India reflect their commitment to fostering positive relations with the U.S. and promoting their own unique societal values and economic strengths.
