US Deports Over 100 Chinese Migrants, Prompting Questions About Biden's China Policy

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently conducted a deportation flight carrying 116 Chinese migrants back to China, marking the agency's first large charter flight of this nature since 2018. The flight was part of the DHS's efforts to reduce and deter irregular migration and disrupt illicit human smuggling.

Surge in Chinese Migrant Encounters

The number of encounters with Chinese migrants at the U.S. southern border has seen a staggering increase, with border officials arresting over 37,000 Chinese migrants in 2023. This represents a significant surge of more than 6,000% since 2021.

The DHS press release emphasized the implementation of "tough consequences" for illegal migrants and referenced President Biden's measures to address the issue of illegal immigration, amid mounting criticism of his border policies.

U.S.-China Cooperation and Engagement

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has been actively engaging with the People's Republic of China to address mutual interests and facilitate repatriations of nationals without lawful immigration status in the United States. Additionally, the U.S. welcomed Ecuador's decision to require visas for passport holders from the PRC in response to smuggling attempts.

Enforcement of Immigration Laws

Mayorkas reaffirmed the U.S.'s commitment to enforcing immigration laws and removing individuals without a legal basis to remain in the country, urging Americans not to be swayed by smugglers' deceitful tactics.