China Accuses Japan of 'Neo-Militarism' Over NATO Ties

China has intensified its criticism of Japan, accusing Tokyo of promoting a dangerous return to militarism that threatens regional peace and stability. The accusation follows Japan's announcement that it will send four members of its Self-Defense Forces to an NATO security assistance and training mission for Ukraine in Germany. This marks the first time Japan has sent personnel to such a mission.

“

China observes with grave concern the Japanese government's promotion of a process of 'neo-militarism' that threatens regional peace and stability.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that Beijing is observing Japan's deepening cooperation with the Western military alliance with "grave concern." He asserted that Japan is pursuing a policy of accelerated remilitarization, strengthening ties with non-Asian military organizations, expanding the operational scope of its Self-Defense Forces, and building a combat-ready structure. Lin suggested that these actions aim to free Japan from post-World War II constitutional and legal constraints that have guided its security policy toward a purely defensive orientation.

These remarks come shortly after a similar exchange at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, where Japan's defense minister rejected China's characterization of his country as "neo-militarist." Lin dismissed Japan's arguments as lacking historical, legal, and factual basis, warning that such a stance prevents Japan from earning the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community. He recalled the "atrocious crimes" committed by Japanese militarists during World War II and cited international documents like the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, which he said established clear limits to prevent a resurgence of Japanese militarism.

“

Japan maintains a policy of accelerated remilitarization, strengthens its ties with military organizations outside Asia, expands the scope of its Self-Defense Forces' activities, and builds an operational structure prepared for combat.

Beijing claims Japan has steadily increased its military capabilities, with the defense budget exceeding 9 trillion yen and reaching record levels for 14 consecutive years. Lin highlighted that Japan's recent actions bear similarities to historical processes examined during the Tokyo Trials, the 80th anniversary of which is being commemorated this year.

“

Japanese militarists committed 'atrocious crimes' during World War II.