The White House has defended President Joe Biden's comments.
US President Joe Biden recently came under fire for calling India, Japan, Russia and China “xenophobic” countries while talking about the US's record of welcoming immigrants. That has led many to wonder what exactly “xenophobia” means.
What is xenophobia?
Xenophobia means fearing or hating people from other cultures or countries. It often stems from not understanding or being unfamiliar with those who are 'different'. This fear can lead to discrimination or even hostility towards those perceived as 'outsiders'. Xenophobia can cause division and prevent people from getting along.
What did Joe Biden say?
At a Democratic Party fundraiser, the president said a major reason the U.S. economy was growing was “because we welcome immigrants.” The 81-year-old Democratic candidate further stated that China, Japan, Russia and India were not doing well economically “because they are xenophobic. They don't want immigrants.”
Biden claimed that “immigrants make us strong,” adding, “We have an influx of workers who want to be here and contribute.”
White House defends his comment
The White House has defended President Joe Biden's comments, clarifying that he was “making a broad point” about the importance of immigrants in strengthening a country.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that India and Japan have strong relations with the US and said, “Our allies and partners know well how much the President respects them. If you just look at the last three years, (the president) has certainly focused on those diplomatic relationships.
She added that the president will always be very clear on issues that are important to the American people, further asserting, “We are a country of immigrants. That matters. And we've seen these attacks. And so the president will never shy away from that.”
Joe Biden hosted Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a state visit last year, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida visited the White House in April.
