Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi responded to China’s criticism of Tokyo’s efforts to strengthen its defence capabilities. Koizumi mentioned that China has been running a propaganda campaign against Japan, accusing it of militarization. He highlighted the security threat posed by China as a key factor behind Japan’s decision to enhance its defence equipment transfers.
Koizumi pointed out that China’s arms exports from 2015 to 2024 totaled around USD 17 billion, making China the fourth-largest arms exporter globally. In contrast, Japan’s arms exports did not rank in the top 50 during the same period. The Defence Minister emphasized the importance of developing Japan’s own defence capabilities independently, especially in the current security environment.
Japan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Yamazaki Kazuyuki, defended Japan’s stance on international law and its commitment to a free and open international order. He reiterated Japan’s dedication to peace, stability, and prosperity globally. Kazuyuki emphasized the need for dialogue to address differences of opinion and expressed Tokyo’s readiness to engage in dialogue with China.
