Japan Rejects “New Militarism” Claims While Warning Over China’s Military Expansion

Japan’s Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi has rejected accusations that the country is returning to “new militarism,” while raising concerns over China’s rapidly expanding military capabilities and lack of transparency.

Speaking at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore, Koizumi said China’s continued rise in defence spending and its growing military activity were matters of “serious concern” for Japan and the wider international community.

He also pushed back against criticism from Beijing, which had previously urged Asia Pacific countries to resist what it called Japan’s “neo-militarism.”

China–Japan Tensions Highlight Regional Security Divide

Koizumi questioned the narrative surrounding Japan’s defence posture, pointing out that Japan does not possess nuclear weapons or strategic bombers, while some regional powers maintain large arsenals.

He said Japan’s post World War Two policy is grounded in international law and commitment to the United Nations Charter, and stressed its focus on maintaining a “free and open international order.”

At the same forum, Chinese delegate Major General Meng Xiangqing criticized Japan’s historical military record, saying regional trust remains a key issue.

Dialogue and Defence Build-Up Continue in Asia-Pacific

Koizumi said Japan remains open to dialogue with China despite tensions and expressed disappointment at the lack of meetings with Chinese officials at the forum.

He added that Japan is seeking to strengthen regional deterrence and expand defence cooperation, including through recent changes to defence export rules that now allow broader overseas arms sales such as warships and missiles.

China’s Defence Minister Dong Jun did not attend the forum for a second consecutive year, reflecting ongoing diplomatic strain between the two countries.