Japan defence minister denies militarism and criticises China's 'huge arsenal'
Japan's defence minister, Shinjiro Koizumi, has rejected claims of his country engaging in 'new militarism' while criticizing China's military expansion. He emphasized that Japan's increased defence spending is a response to regional challenges and not a sign of aggression. Koizumi's remarks come amid ongoing tensions between Japan and China, particularly regarding historical grievances and military capabilities.
- ▪Shinjiro Koizumi criticized China's military expansion and lack of transparency at a defence summit in Singapore.
- ▪Japan has been increasing its defence budget for 12 consecutive years, with the latest budget exceeding 9 trillion yen.
- ▪Koizumi stated that Japan's military capabilities are not comparable to China's 'huge arsenal' of nuclear weapons.
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Japan defence minister denies militarism and criticises China's 'huge arsenal'28 minutes agoShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleTessa WongAsia Digital Reporter, Shangri-la Dialogue, SingaporeWatch: Japan Defence Minister Koizumi rejects 'new militarism' claimJapan's defence minister has rebutted Beijing's claim that his country is engaging in a "new militarism" - criticising China for its military expansion and lack of transparency.Speaking on the last day of a defence summit in Singapore, Shinjiro Koizumi argued it was actually China and its "huge arsenal" of weapons that was of "serious concern" to the international community.His remarks were some of the most pointed yet from Tokyo in response to China's repeated criticism of Japan's military build-up under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
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