Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar strongly refuted US President Joe Biden’s assertion that “xenophobia” was impeding economic growth in India. In a roundtable event, Jaishankar emphasized that India’s economy was not failing and has historically been a society that is welcoming and open-minded.
Jaishankar pointed to India’s Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) as evidence of the country’s commitment to helping those in need. The CAA allows immigrants fleeing persecution in neighboring countries to become Indian citizens, showcasing India’s willingness to provide a safe haven for those seeking refuge.
Biden’s comments about xenophobia stunting growth in China, Japan, and India did not sit well with authorities in those countries. Japan, in particular, expressed disappointment in Biden’s characterization, calling it “unfortunate” and incorrect. Tokyo emphasized that the comments were not based on a true understanding of Japan’s policies and stance on immigration.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has predicted that growth in Asia’s largest economies will slow in 2024 compared to the previous year. However, the US economy is expected to grow slightly faster at 2.7%, with economists attributing some of this growth to the contributions made by migrants to the country’s labor force. Biden’s remarks and the reactions from Asian countries highlight the complex interplay between immigration policies and economic growth on a global scale.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also weighed into the debate over immigration policies and their impact on economic growth during his visit to South Korea last week. Modi emphasized that India’s approach towards immigration was guided by compassion towards those who need help but also respect for its own national interests.
In conclusion, the issue of immigration policies and their impact on economic growth remains a hotly debated topic around the world. While different countries may have varying approaches towards immigration, it is clear that migrants can contribute positively to an economy if they are welcomed into society and given equal opportunities for work and prosperity.