China criticizes Japan’s defense spending increase

Chinese officials criticized Japan’s increased defense spending in remarks made during a recent meeting between the two countries’ leaders. The comments come after Japan’s prime minister said the country could assist Taiwan if China attacked the island. Beijing claims Taiwan as its own territory.

Regional military developments Semafor reported that Beijing has conducted a large military display and has been involved in disputes with Vietnam and the Philippines. Japan has responded by expanding its defense capabilities. An expert wrote in Foreign Affairs that Japan will continue to increase its defense spending as regional tensions rise.

Japan’s defense budget increases follow years of relatively stable spending levels before the recent policy shift.