China has voiced its concerns over Japan’s increasing military activities, cautioning that the nation’s recent defense strategies could jeopardize peace and stability in the region. In a routine press briefing on Tuesday, Guo Jiakun, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, addressed reports about Ukrainian drone companies potentially collaborating with Japanese partners. He emphasized that international partnerships should aim to enhance regional security and stability, not escalate tensions.
Guo elaborated on Japan’s military trajectory, noting that the country has been pursuing expansion by developing medium- and long-range offensive capabilities. This includes relaxing restrictions on exporting lethal weapons, broadening the scope of activities for its Self-Defense Forces, and fostering security relationships with nations beyond the immediate region. These moves, according to Guo, stretch beyond the confines of Japan’s post-World War II defense framework and challenge its historically defense-oriented security stance.
The spokesman further argued that Japan’s actions threaten to undermine the international order established after World War II. He pointed out that such developments contrast sharply with Japan’s enduring image as a nation dedicated to peace, casting doubt on its commitment to maintaining tranquility in the region.
China urged the international community to stay alert to what it perceives as increasing signs of militarization in Japan. The call was for collective efforts to safeguard regional stability, as China sees Japan’s military developments as potentially destabilizing the balance of power in East Asia.