President Joe Biden has stirred controversy with remarks made at a Washington, D.C., fundraiser where he criticized several countries, including close US ally Japan, labeling them as “xenophobic” for their immigration policies. The comments, made in an off-camera event, come just weeks after Biden praised the US-Japan alliance during a state dinner.

According to an official White House transcript released Thursday, Biden argued that Japan, along with India, Russia, and China, would see economic improvement if they embraced immigration more. “Why is China stalling so badly economically? Why is Japan having trouble? Why is Russia? Why is India? Because they’re xenophobic. They don’t want immigrants,” Biden said.

While initial reports did not include India in the list of countries mentioned, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre clarified that Biden was making a broader point about the importance of immigration to a nation’s identity. “He was saying that when it comes to who we are as a nation, we are a nation of immigrants, that is in our DNA,” she told reporters aboard Air Force One.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated that there were no communications between the White House and the governments of Japan or India regarding Biden’s remarks. However, he emphasized Biden’s appreciation for the capabilities these countries bring across various issues.

Biden’s characterization of Japan as “xenophobic” comes less than a month after hosting Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for a state visit. During the visit, Biden highlighted the strong alliance between the two nations, emphasizing shared values of democracy and freedom.

Japan has long grappled with a demographic crisis, leading to workforce and economic challenges. The country, along with other East Asian nations, has been hesitant to use immigration as a solution to bolster its population.

Biden’s comments also coincide with political pressure at home over immigration policies amid an influx of migrants and Republican criticism.

Despite the controversy, the US-Japan relationship remains crucial, with both nations serving as important counterweights to China’s growing global influence. As Biden continues to navigate international relations, the impact of his remarks on diplomatic ties remains to be seen.