Beijing: China has accused Japan of using regional security cooperation and its 'free and open Indo-Pacific' strategy as a pretext for military expansion, warning that Tokyo's actions pose a threat to regional peace and stability.
According to Anadolu Agency, the allegations were made by Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Jiang Bin, following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's visits to Australia and Vietnam aimed at strengthening security ties. Jiang accused Tokyo of promoting bloc confrontation through these initiatives. "Under the pretexts of the so-called 'free and open Indo-Pacific' and 'security cooperation,' governing authorities in Japan are instigating bloc confrontation and building 'small circles,'" he stated, asserting that this undermines the strategic security and interests of other countries, and serves as an excuse for Japan to pursue military development.
Jiang criticized calls within Japan to amend the country's post-war pacifist constitution, describing such moves as a shift from 'covert military buildup to overt war preparation.' He warned that what Beijing views as rising 'neo-militarism' in Japan could threaten peace in Asia.
The spokesperson also referenced the legacy of World War II, noting this year marks the 80th anniversary of the Tokyo Trials, which prosecuted Japanese wartime leaders. He accused Japanese right-wing groups of attempting to downplay wartime aggression and glorify convicted war criminals honored at the Yasukuni Shrine.
China urged Japan to 'face up to history' and take concrete steps to gain the trust of neighboring Asian countries and the broader international community. There has been no immediate response from Tokyo regarding China's statement.
Jiang also called on "relevant countries" to avoid forming blocs and creating camp confrontations. He commented on a recent summit between the Japanese and Filipino defense ministers, where they pledged to strengthen defense cooperation. He said, "Certain politicians from Japan and the Philippines have been hyping up false narratives on maritime issues and making groundless accusations against China, which China is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposes."