Japan rejects China’s ‘New Militarism’ accusation

Japan has strongly rejected accusations from China that it is moving towards “new militarism,” as tensions between the two countries continue to grow over regional security issues.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue security summit in Singapore, Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said Japan remains committed to peace, international law, and the principles it has followed since World War II.

He argued that claims of Japanese militarism are unfair, pointing out that Japan does not possess nuclear weapons or strategic bombers.

Koizumi also raised concerns about China’s rapidly expanding military capabilities and increasing defence spending, saying the lack of transparency around Beijing’s military activities is worrying for both Japan and the international community. Despite the ongoing tensions, he said Japan remains open to dialogue with China to maintain regional peace and stability.

The dispute comes amid growing disagreements over Taiwan and Japan’s recent efforts to strengthen its defence sector, including easing restrictions on arms exports and increasing military cooperation with regional partners. China has criticized these moves, calling them signs of “neo-militarism.”