US President Joe Biden has labelled Japan and India as ‘xenophobic’ concerning their immigration policies, amidst strengthening global alliances and economic concerns.
US President Joe Biden has described Japan and India as “xenophobic” during a campaign fundraising event, critiquing these countries, along with China and Russia, for their attitudes towards immigration. Despite affirming strong alliances with Japan and India, Biden suggested that their reluctance to accept more immigrants could be detrimental to their economic growth. The White House later attempted to mitigate the impact of these remarks by underscoring Biden’s commitment to international partnerships, especially noting the timing within Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
In another geopolitical development, Australian officials have declined to comment on reports concerning the expulsion of two Indian spies four years ago. These spies were allegedly introduced by India’s Research and Analysis Wing and were involved in intelligence activities targeting Australian politicians and securing confidential information on trade and defense. Despite the sensitive nature of these allegations, Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers has reaffirmed the strong bilateral ties with India.
In efforts to tackle emerging technologies, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has unveiled a new international framework for regulating generative AI. Announced at an OECD meeting in Paris, the Hiroshima AI Process Friends Group initiative has attracted participation from 49 countries. This framework aims to guide AI developers worldwide in addressing the risks associated with generative AI, such as the spread of disinformation.
Furthermore, former US President Donald Trump has outlined a contentious plan to deport between 15 million and 20 million undocumented immigrants using local police, the National Guard, and possibly the military. Characterizing these immigrants as an “invasion,” Trump’s comments have intensified debates around US immigration policies. He accuses the current administration of undermining the country through lax border controls, a claim the Biden campaign has dismissed as a diversion from Trump’s record.
These global political narratives continue to unfold amid complex international relations and domestic policy challenges faced by the respective leaders and countries involved.