In a controversial statement, United States President Joe Biden has linked India’s economic struggles to its alleged reluctance to accept immigrants. Speaking at a fundraising event in Washington, Biden attributed the robust economy of the US to its embrace of immigrants, while contrasting this with the economic challenges faced by countries such as India, China, and Japan, which he described as “xenophobic.” Biden’s comments, which were based on the premise that immigration strengthens the economy, were met with some criticism.
The term “xenophobia,” derived from the Greek words “xenos” (stranger) and “phobos” (fear), refers to a fear or hatred of foreigners or anything unfamiliar. In his remarks, Biden implied that the economic success of the US could be attributed to its welcoming attitude toward immigrants, while nations that exhibit xenophobia, such as India and others, are experiencing economic difficulties.
However, the US has since sought to clarify Biden’s statement, emphasizing that he was making a broader point about the significance of immigration in the context of recent attacks against immigrants. The White House Press Secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, stressed that Biden’s comments were not intended as a criticism of specific allies or partners, and that the US values its relationships with countries like India and Japan.
Biden’s comments on India’s economy and immigration policies have sparked a debate on the role of immigration in economic growth and the potential implications of xenophobia on global economic development.
