President Biden’s recent comments asserting that Japan is “xenophobic” for not accepting more immigrants have prompted a response from the Japanese government. Japanese officials in Washington, D.C. have conveyed to Fox News Digital that they have spoken to the Biden administration regarding the remarks and were informed that the president’s words were not meant to be derogatory. While acknowledging the U.S. government’s clarification that Biden’s comment was made in the context of highlighting the U.S. as a nation of immigrants, the Japanese officials emphasized that Biden’s “xenophobic” comments were “not based on an accurate understanding of Japan’s policies.” They expressed that the situation was “unfortunate” and that they have explained Japan’s immigration policies to the U.S. government. Despite the controversy, the Japanese government’s response maintained a diplomatic tone, affirming that Prime Minister Kishida’s visit to the U.S. in April demonstrated the strength of the Japan-U.S. relationship and that they will continue to work towards strengthening the bilateral tie. Several Japanese lawmakers took to social media to express confusion or skepticism towards Biden’s comments. Mizuho Umemura, a member of the conservative Nippon Ishin no Kai Party, pointed out that migration is a challenge faced by European leaders as well and that no country has yet found a solution. She urged President Biden to address the issue in New York before making such comments and noted that Japan should not necessarily follow suit based on U.S. policy changes. Sohei Kamiya, leader of the right-wing populist Sansei Party, was more direct in his response, stating that Japan is being cautious about immigration after observing challenges faced by the U.S. and that the U.S. should not meddle in Japan’s internal affairs.
Japan Responds to Biden’s ‘Xenophobic’ Comments
