Japan’s defence minister, Shinjiro Koizumi, has denied allegations from Beijing that Japan is engaging in a “new militarism,” according to BBC. In response, he criticized China for its military expansion and lack of transparency.

Responses to China’s Concerns

Koizumi made these remarks during the last day of a defence summit in Singapore. He argued that China and its “huge arsenal” of weapons are of “serious concern” to the international community.

The comments represent some of the most pointed responses yet from Tokyo in response to China’s repeated criticism of Japan’s military build-up under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

The two countries have a long history of tensions stemming from Japan’s invasion of China during World War Two.

China’s Warnings and Japan’s Budget

Last week, a day before the Singapore summit began, China’s national defence ministry spokesperson Jiang Bin warned that “the grey rhino of a remilitarised Japan is gathering speed” and called on the international community to “work together to contain Japan’s neo-militarism.

Japan has been increasing its defence budget for 12 consecutive years. Its latest budget, approved in December by its cabinet, is for more than 9 trillion yen ($57bn, £42bn), moving the country closer to its target of spending 2% of its GDP on the military.

During his speech at the Shangri-la Dialogue, Koizumi said it was “only natural” that countries, including Japan, update their defences to meet new challenges and contribute to peace in the region.

He sought to reassure officials from Asian countries, including several that were invaded by Japan in WW2, by promising Japan would proceed “with a high degree of transparency” and engage in constant dialogue with other countries.

“What are we developing these capabilities for? And based on what thinking? Japan will move forward while making a clear explanation to the international community,” he said.

Divisions and Future Plans

Koizumi refuted the idea that Japan was engaged in “new militarism,” saying it was “nothing further from the truth.” He noted that “a country that has a huge arsenal of nuclear weapons and strategic bombers” is the real concern, making a veiled reference to China.

Japan has also relaxed rules that allow it to sell lethal weapons to other countries, helping to build up its defence industrial base. The country will also be revising key security documents by the end of the year.

Takaichi has also pushed for revising Article 9 of Japan’s constitution, a pacifist clause that renounces war. Her moves have deeply divided Japan, with some supporting increased defence against potential threats such as China, while others fear escalation.

There has also been fierce debate over whether Japan is moving away from its post-war pacifism, a core part of the national identity. In recent months, anti-war protests have been held across the country, some of which have become the largest in decades.