Germany has hit back at Tesla CEO Elon Musk, after his comments about the country’s immigration policy stirred controversy.
Musk, who recently visited Germany, addressed the nation’s lack of support for refugees in an appearance on German public broadcaster ARD. He argued that Germany should open its borders to those seeking refuge, saying, “Being a German refugee is very difficult in other countries.”
Unsurprisingly, these comments generated backlash from some German politicians. Horst Seehofer, the interior minister and leader of the conservative Christian Social Union, called Musk’s remarks “unhelpful” and suggested that the billionaire was “out of touch” with the current situation in Germany.
Others were unimpressed with Musk’s comments, arguing that he was merely trying to garner publicity. Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, noted that “this kind of talk does not help to solve anything.”
The debate on immigration has been a contentious issue in Germany in recent years. After taking in over one million migrants in 2015, the government has enacted policies aimed at reducing migrant numbers and speeding up deportation processes.
Musk is not the first American entrepreneur to weigh in on the issue. Last year, Apple CEO Tim Cook visited Germany and praised its efforts to tackle the refugee crisis.
Ultimately, the dispute between Musk and German politicians demonstrates the complexity of the country’s immigration policy and the public’s divided views on the issue. However, it is clear that while some support the government’s efforts, there is still a sizable portion of people who feel strongly that the nation should do more to welcome and support those seeking refuge.