A senior Japanese official dismissed China and Russia’s accusations of Japan’s “remilitarisation” as baseless. Japan’s Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary, Masanao Ozaki, urged China and Russia to alter their behavior concerning issues like Beijing’s military activities and Moscow’s actions in Ukraine. He emphasized Japan’s commitment to freedom, democracy, and the rule of law since World War II and reiterated Japan’s defense-oriented policy.
China and Russia criticized Japan for its alleged acceleration of remilitarization, which they view as a threat to regional peace. They expressed concerns about Japan’s right-wing forces advocating changes to the country’s nuclear principles. Tensions between China and Japan escalated when Japan’s Prime Minister hinted at a potential response to a Chinese attack on Taiwan by Japan’s Self-Defence Forces.
Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi defended Japan’s efforts to enhance its defense capabilities in response to China’s criticism. Koizumi highlighted China’s significant arms exports compared to Japan’s minimal presence in the global arms market. He emphasized the need for Japan to bolster its defense capabilities independently, citing the escalating security threats posed by China.
