Japan Defense Minister Rejects Chinese Militarism Claims at Singapore Forum

Japan's defense minister on Sunday rejected Chinese allegations that Tokyo's expanding defense cooperation amounts to new militarism. The minister told delegates at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore that the policy is transparent and intended to strengthen regional deterrence. The minister said Japan lacks nuclear weapons and strategic bombers, making the accusation strange.

The minister defended Japan's recent loosening of arms export rules, saying the changes would let regional partners better defend themselves. The minister listed ongoing or planned transfers including frigates to Australia and potentially New Zealand, plus radar systems and patrol vessels to the Philippines. The minister declined to answer a question about possible arms sales to Taiwan.

The minister said he remains committed to communication with China and other countries for regional peace and security. The minister expressed regret that he could not meet his Chinese counterpart at the event, citing a frank and fruitful discussion at a November defense ministers' meeting in Malaysia.

Chinese officials have accused right-wing elements in the Japanese government of neo-militarism and expansionist policies, a charge first leveled in early April after the export policy shift.

“These are efforts to support each country to choose for itself, to defend itself, and to contribute to regional stability. Japan is hoping to be a reliable funder for that purpose.”