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Japan Rejects 'Neo-Militarism' Accusations, Pledges Open Dialog

Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said Tokyo remains committed to international engagement despite expanding its military capabilities. Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Koizumi dismissed Chinese accusations of neo-militarism as baseless, noting Japan lacks nuclear weapons and strategic bombers that other nations possess. He emphasized transparency as essential for reducing tensions and preventing crises. Japan has increased defense spending and revised arms export guidelines, including lifting a ban on lethal weapons sales. Koizumi expressed disappointment that China's defense ministry did not send a ministerial-level representative to the forum, preventing direct talks with counterpart Dong Jun. He stressed that making unfounded claims in an adversary's absence does not advance regional stability. He reaffirmed Japan's commitment to international law and its identity as a peace-loving nation.