Japan pushes back against accusations of 'new militarism'

Japan's Defense Minister Koizumi Shinjirō strongly refuted claims of "new militarism" during a speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia's premier security forum, held in Singapore.

Addressing the audience of defense leaders, military officials, and diplomats, Koizumi directly challenged the accusations, which have been leveled by China. "Think about it. There's a country that has a huge arsenal of nuclear weapons and strategic bombers. Japan has neither of such weapons, and yet Japan is labelled 'new militarism'?" he stated on Sunday, May 31. His remarks were clearly aimed at China, which has previously warned Asia-Pacific nations to resist Japan's alleged "neo-militarism."

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Think about it. There's a country that has a huge arsenal of nuclear weapons and strategic bombers. Japan has neither of such weapons, and yet Japan is labelled 'new militarism'?

Koizumi emphasized Japan's post-World War II commitment to international law and the United Nations Charter. He asserted that Japan has consistently worked to uphold and strengthen a free and open international order. This statement serves as a defense against perceptions that Japan's increasing defense capabilities signal a return to pre-war militaristic policies.

The minister also conveyed his disappointment at the missed opportunity to engage with Chinese counterparts at the dialogue. For the second consecutive year, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun did not attend the Singapore meeting, foregoing chances for bilateral discussions with regional defense officials. This absence further complicates diplomatic exchanges on regional security matters.

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Since the end of the Second World War, Japan has consistently respected international law, including the Charter of the United Nations, and has made sincere efforts to maintain and strengthen a free and open international order.