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Diplomatic Dispute: Japan And India Reject Biden’s ‘Xenophobic’ Label, Emphasize Openness And Growth

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7 months ago

May 5, 2024.

Diplomatic Dispute: Japan And India Reject Biden's 'Xenophobic' Label, Emphasize Openness And Growth

Japan and India refute Biden’s “xenophobic” label, citing misunderstanding of their policies.
Biden’s remarks made during fundraising event spark diplomatic tension.
Both nations emphasize their openness and robust economic growth, countering Biden’s assertions.

EKO HOT BLOG reports that Japan and India rebuked President Joe Biden’s characterization of them as “xenophobic” nations unwelcoming to immigrants, remarks made during a recent campaign fundraising event.

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Japan contested Biden’s assessment, asserting it lacked an accurate understanding of its policies, while India defended itself as the world’s most open society.

In grouping Japan and India with Russia and China as “xenophobic” countries, Biden aimed to illustrate their economic struggles in contrast to the United States’ vitality as a nation of immigrants.

Both Japan and India are vital U.S. allies, active members of the Quad, a U.S.-led coalition with Australia countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific.

Recently, Biden reaffirmed the strong alliance with Japan during Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s visit, underscoring their commitment to bolster security amid regional challenges.

Diplomatic Dispute: Japan And India Reject Biden’s ‘Xenophobic’ Label, Emphasize Openness And Growth

Similarly, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington last year highlighted the deepening ties between the two nations.

The White House clarified Biden’s remarks, emphasizing his intent to celebrate America’s immigrant heritage rather than disparage bilateral relations.

Japan acknowledged Biden’s clarification but regretted the misrepresentation of its policies, affirming the enduring strength of Japan-U.S. relations.

Meanwhile, in New Delhi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar refuted Biden’s characterization, proclaiming India as the epitome of openness, pluralism, and understanding.

Highlighting India’s robust GDP growth, Jaishankar countered Biden’s assertions, emphasizing the country’s economic resilience.

Biden’s comments were made during a fundraising event attended largely by Asian Americans, where he credited immigrants for America’s economic success while questioning the economic challenges faced by China, Japan, Russia, and India, attributing them to xenophobia.

Although Japan historically maintained stringent immigration policies, recent reforms aim to address population decline by attracting foreign workers.