Japan informed the United States that the recent statements made by President Joe Biden, in which he described the Asian country as one that hates foreigners, were disappointing, according to a source familiar with the matter yesterday, Friday.
The Japanese government informed the American side that Biden's remarks, made during a fundraising event last Wednesday, prior to the 2024 presidential election, were not based on a precise understanding of Japan's policy, according to what the Kyodo News Agency reported today, Saturday, citing an unnamed source.
At the event, which was attended by many Asian American voters, Biden said: "As you know, one of the reasons for our economy's growth is you and many others. Why? Because we welcome immigrants," according to the White House.
Biden was quoted as saying in a hotel in Washington, "Look, think about it.. why is China struggling economically so badly? Why is Japan facing problems? Why Russia? Why India? Because they hate foreigners.. they don't want immigrants".
He praised immigration and diversity as major strengths of the United States.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre sought to downplay Biden's comments on Thursday, stating that the goal was to highlight how important it is for the United States to be a nation of immigrants.
Jean-Pierre told reporters, "Our allies and partners know very well how much the President respects them."