The U.S. and China have resumed cooperation on the deportation of Chinese migrants in the U.S. illegally, ending a suspension by China that began in August 2022.
This suspension led to a significant increase in illegal immigration from China, with over 37,000 Chinese nationals arrested at the southern border in 2023 alone—a dramatic rise compared to previous years.
Key Takeaways:
- Resumption of Deportation Flights: The first deportation flight to China in years occurred on March 30, 2024, landing in Shenyang with a small number of deportees. This flight marks a symbolic step towards reestablishing deportation protocols.
- Bilateral Efforts: This move is part of broader efforts to reestablish and expand bilateral contacts, following a pivotal meeting between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping in California in late 2023.
- Importance for U.S. Immigration Laws: The cooperation is crucial for the U.S. to enforce its immigration laws effectively. Without China’s acceptance, the U.S. cannot deport Chinese nationals who lack legal status to remain in the country.
The Surge in Illegal Immigration
The suspension of deportation cooperation by China in August 2022 led to an influx of Chinese immigrants entering the U.S. illegally from Mexico.
In 2023, the U.S. saw more than 37,000 Chinese nationals arrested at the southern border, highlighting the need for effective immigration enforcement and international cooperation.
Bilateral Relations and Geopolitical Tensions
The suspension of deportation cooperation was one of several points of tension between the U.S. and China.
Strains were exacerbated by geopolitical issues, including a controversial visit to Taiwan by former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
However, the recent meeting between Biden and Xi Jinping aimed to mend these strained relations, setting the stage for renewed cooperation on various fronts, including immigration enforcement.
China’s Stance on Illegal Immigration
Chinese authorities have expressed a willingness to cooperate on immigration enforcement and have reaffirmed their stance against illegal immigration.
This cooperation is essential for ensuring that individuals without a legal basis to stay in the U.S. are deported, maintaining the integrity of U.S. immigration laws.
Looking Ahead
The resumption of deportation flights and improved bilateral cooperation are steps in the right direction.
Continued engagement between U.S. and Chinese officials will be crucial to ensuring the effective enforcement of immigration laws and addressing the broader challenges of illegal immigration.
