Japan rejects China-Russia criticism over military policy
Japan on Thursday dismissed criticism from China and Russia regarding what they described as Tokyo’s “remilitarization,” calling the accusations “unfounded.”
In a joint statement issued during talks between Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, the two leaders said Japan was accelerating military expansion in a way they argued could threaten regional peace and stability.
Tokyo responds to criticism
Masanao Ozaki rejected those concerns and said Japan wants China to change its behavior regarding military activities that Tokyo considers a source of serious international concern.
Ozaki also called on Russia to end its military operations in Ukraine.
Regional tensions continue
Relations between Japan and China have become increasingly strained following comments by Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan and Japan’s security interests.
China has repeatedly voiced opposition to Japan’s defense expansion policies.
Japan expands defense posture
Japan recently moved away from long-standing postwar restrictions by lifting limits on military equipment transfers, opening the possibility of exporting lethal weapons as part of efforts to expand its defense industry and strategic capabilities.
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