Japan’s Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi dismissed claims of “new militarism” by Tokyo, criticizing China for rapidly expanding its military without transparency. Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Koizumi highlighted mounting tensions between the two nations.
China continues to increase defence spending significantly, according to Koizumi. He emphasized that China’s external approach and military activities are concerning not only to Japan but also to the international community.
Koizumi rejected accusations of new militarism, pointing out that while China possesses nuclear weapons and strategic bombers, Japan does not have such capabilities. Despite this, Japan is labeled as “new militarism.”
He underscored Japan’s commitment to international law and the UN Charter since World War II, noting efforts to uphold a free and open international order.
In May, China’s foreign ministry urged Asia-Pacific countries to be vigilant against Japan’s alleged neo-militarism.
At the Singapore forum, Chinese delegate Major General Meng Xiangqing criticized Japan for not having fully eradicated its militaristic past. He questioned whether Japan can win the trust of the international community, especially Asian nations once invaded by China.
Relations between Japan and China reached their lowest point in years after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi warned that a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan could provoke a Japanese military response. China claims Taiwan as its territory, despite Taipei’s objections.
Koizumi expressed sadness at not meeting his Chinese counterpart but reaffirmed Japan’s openness to dialogue with China and other regional players for stability.
For the second consecutive year, China’s Defence Minister Dong Jun skipped the Singapore security forum. Koizumi stated that Japan is determined to play a new role in defence equipment cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region and aims to strengthen deterrence against coercion and falsehoods.
In April, Tokyo overhauled its defence export rules, removing restrictions on overseas arms sales and enabling exports of warships, missiles, and other weapons.