That's why we have the CAA...: Jaishankar responds to Biden's xenophobia remark

• Jaishankar rejects Biden's comments on xenophobia in certain economies like India
• He reaffirms India's openness, citing the CAA as a testament to the country's welcoming approach
• 'No person has lost citizenship because of the law in India': Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has responded to US President Joe Biden's recent remarks on xenophobia, asserting India's openness to people from other societies. Jaishankar highlighted India's Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) as a testament to this openness, stating that the law aims to provide refuge to those in need.

Biden's remarks earlier this week suggested that economies of countries like India were stalling due to xenophobia. However, Jaishankar countered this, stating that India's economy remains robust and refuting the suggestion of xenophobia within the country.

Jaishankar stated, "That's why we have the CAA, which is to open up doors for people who are in trouble... I think we should be open to people who have the need to come to India, who have a claim to come to India."

He further criticized those who opposed the CAA, dismissing claims that it would result in the loss of citizenship for Muslims. Jaishankar clarified that no person has lost citizenship because of the law, which primarily facilitates Indian citizenship for non-Muslim refugees from neighboring countries.

The Biden administration, in response to the controversy stirred by the President's remarks, reiterated its respect for allies like India and emphasized America's immigrant heritage. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre emphasized Biden's focus on diplomatic relationships with India and other key partners.