President Joe Biden has referred to Japan and India, along with China and Russia, as countries that are not reaping the economic rewards of migration due to their alleged xenophobia at a campaign fundraising event. Biden’s comments drew surprise, particularly since he has sought to deepen ties with Japan and India as key US allies. The President welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to the White House for a state dinner just three weeks ago, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the White House for a state visit last year.
During the event, Biden made a point about the economic growth of these countries being hindered by hostility towards foreigners, contrasting it with the US, which he believes is strengthened by immigrants. This is a significant statement considering Japan’s immigration policies, which have resulted in it having the lowest level of migration among the Group of Seven nations, with immigrants making up no more than 2% of the population, compared to 14% in the US. Similarly, India, now the world’s most populous nation, has faced criticism for a new citizenship law that fast-tracks naturalisation for non-Muslims from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
The White House has taken steps to mitigate the impact of Biden’s remarks, with National Security Council spokesman John Kirby clarifying that the President’s broader point was about the US being a nation of immigrants. Kirby also reassured that the President holds the US allies in high regard, appreciates their friendship, and values their contributions. However, despite these efforts, the comments have still raised concerns and left many pondering about the future of the US’s relationship with Japan and India.
