Japan’s recent military initiatives have drawn concern from China, with the latter warning that these actions could destabilize regional peace. During a routine press briefing on Tuesday, Guo Jiakun, a spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, addressed reports suggesting that Ukrainian drone companies are exploring partnerships with Japanese firms. He emphasized that international collaborations should aim to enhance regional security and not escalate existing tensions.
Guo highlighted that Japan has been on a trajectory of military expansion in recent years. This includes the development of medium- and long-range offensive capabilities, easing restrictions on the export of lethal weapons, extending the operations of its Self-Defense Forces, and fortifying security alliances with nations beyond its immediate geographic area.
These actions, according to the spokesman, extend beyond Japan’s postwar defense framework, challenging the principles of its historically defense-focused security policy. Guo argued that Japan’s recent moves risk undermining the post-World War II international order and contradict the nation’s long-standing commitment to peace.
China urged the global community to stay alert to what it views as escalating signs of militarization within Japan and called for efforts to uphold regional stability. The developments, according to the Chinese government, pose a significant challenge to the established norms and principles that have governed international relations in the region for decades.