Biden criticizes Japan, India, Russia, and China for xenophobia

President Joe Biden recently referred to close ally Japan as “xenophobic” during a fundraiser in Washington, D.C., claiming that Japan, along with India, Russia, and China, would benefit economically by embracing immigration. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre clarified that Biden was making a larger point about the importance of immigrants to the US economy. Despite the comment, she emphasized the enduring relationship between the US and Japan. Biden has previously criticized Japan, China, and Russia as “xenophobic” during an interview in March. The critique comes after hosting Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for state visits. Japan’s reluctance to use immigration to address demographic challenges has been a longstanding issue. Biden’s comments also coincide with domestic political pressure over immigration policies.

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