Biden accuses Japan, Russia, and China of xenophobia

President Joe Biden sparked controversy on Wednesday when he referred to close US ally Japan as “xenophobic” during a fundraiser in Washington, D.C. This statement came just weeks after Biden praised the US-Japan alliance at a state dinner.

Biden made the remark while discussing the economic performance of countries like Japan, India, Russia, and China, suggesting that they would benefit from embracing immigration. According to an official White House transcript, Biden said, “They don’t want immigrants,” referring to these countries.

Press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre later clarified that Biden was making a broader point about the importance of immigration to economic growth. She emphasized that the US-Japan relationship remains “important” and “enduring,” despite Biden’s comment.

This is not the first time Biden has criticized Japan for being “xenophobic.” In a previous interview, he also labeled China and Russia as such. The latest critique of Japan comes shortly after hosting Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for a state visit and emphasizing the strength of the US-Japan alliance.

Biden’s comments have raised eyebrows, especially as he faces political pressure at home over his immigration policies. The president’s remarks highlight the ongoing debate over immigration policies and their impact on economic growth and international relations.