Beijing: China has reiterated its opposition to Japan’s bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, accusing the longtime rival of posing “new threats” to regional peace and stability and being “totally” unqualified, Chinese media reported on Saturday. Addressing a UN General Assembly session on negotiations over equitable representation and an increase in Security Council membership, China’s UN Ambassador Fu Cong stated that Japan is unfit for a permanent seat on the council, according to state broadcaster CCTV.

According to Anadolu Agency, Fu accused Japan of persistently refusing to reflect on its wartime crimes of aggression, openly trampling on the postwar international order, and interfering in the sovereignty of other countries. He argued that such actions pose new threats to regional peace and stability, rendering Japan “totally unqualified” for a permanent seat on the Security Council. Japan, a proponent of reforms to the council, has not responded to China’s accusations.

Tensions between Beijing and Tokyo have escalated since last November, when Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could legally constitute a ‘survival-threatening situation,’ potentially allowing Japan to exercise the right of collective self-defense. The remarks triggered a backlash from China.

Fu outlined three key points for Security Council reform, emphasizing that the council must not become a ‘club’ of major powers and that reform should not benefit only a small number of countries. He stressed that reform should enhance the representation and voice of developing countries, enabling more small and medium-sized states with independent foreign policies to enter the council. Additionally, he emphasized correcting historical injustices suffered by Africa, with priority and special arrangements made to address Africa’s legitimate demands.

Lastly, Fu highlighted that reform should not be confined to the current global landscape but should be planned with strategic vision and a long-term perspective.