Joe Biden Calls Japan, India 'Xenophobic' Few Weeks After White House Hosted Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

President Biden's recent comments at a campaign fundraiser in Washington, DC, sparked controversy as he labeled Japan and India, along with China and Russia, as "xenophobic" for their purported reluctance to embrace immigrants.

Joe Biden underscored the importance of immigration to the strength and vitality of the United States' economy, highlighting his administration's commitment to welcoming immigrants, The Hill reports.

While Biden's remarks resonated with his supporters, they raised concerns about potential diplomatic repercussions, particularly with Japan and India, key allies in America's strategy to counter Chinese aggression.

White House officials sought to clarify Biden's intention, emphasizing his broader point about America's immigrant heritage and the enduring strength of its alliances.

Immigration Policy in Focus

Biden's comments reflect his administration's efforts to address immigration challenges while navigating domestic and international pressures.

Despite facing criticism from both Republicans and Democrats over immigration issues, Biden has sought to assert a compassionate and inclusive approach, contrasting with the policies of his predecessor, Donald Trump.

Japanese lawmakers expressed confusion and skepticism regarding Biden's characterization of their country's immigration stance, according to Fox News.

Some highlighted the complexity of migration issues and cautioned against oversimplifying solutions.

Meanwhile, Indian officials have not publicly responded to Biden's remarks, indicating a desire to maintain diplomatic relations despite potential disagreements.

Advocates for immigrants had expected President Biden to support a "humane" immigration approach, but the reality has been more complicated.

As border challenges heightened, demands for stricter measures grew, including from Biden's Democratic allies in cities like Chicago, New York, and Denver.

While Biden proposed new legal paths for certain migrants, his policies took a firmer tone.

During congressional talks on immigration legislation in January, Biden indicated a willingness to use it to close the border immediately upon enactment.

Maribel Hernandez Rivera, director of policy and government affairs for border and immigration at the ACLU, expressed hope Thursday that Biden's remarks at the fundraiser signaled a reevaluation of these stricter measures.

Defending Biden's Remarks

National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communication, John Kirby, defended Joe Biden's comments, emphasizing the broader point about America's immigrant identity and its positive impact on the nation's prosperity, BBC noted.

Kirby reiterated the administration's commitment to its allies and emphasized the value of their contributions to global partnerships, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

Sohei Kamiya, a member of Japan's House of Councilors and leader of the right-wing populist Sansei Party, criticized the United States, implying that issues arising from immigration in America affect Japan's hesitance to follow suit.

"It's not that we're xenophobic, we are being cautious after seeing your failures," Kamiya stated. "You are meddling too much in our internal affairs," she added.

President Joe Biden's remarks on immigration have sparked diplomatic discussion and raised questions about the intersection of immigration policy and international relations.

As the administration navigates these challenges, it faces the complex task of balancing domestic priorities with diplomatic considerations, all while upholding America's commitment to inclusivity and cooperation on the global stage.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Biden calls Japan and India 'xenophobic' nations that do not welcome immigrants - From Associated Press