Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi firmly rejected Beijing’s accusation that Tokyo is embracing a ‘new militarism,’ during his remarks at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Sunday. He criticized China’s rapid military buildup and lack of transparency, saying such actions are a growing concern for Japan and the international community. Koizumi argued that Japan, which possesses no nuclear weapons or strategic bombers, is unfairly labeled while others with vast arsenals face no such criticism.

Koizumi emphasized Japan’s post–World War II record of respecting international law, upholding the UN Charter, and supporting a free and open international order. His comments came after China’s foreign ministry urged Asia-Pacific nations to resist Japan’s alleged militarist resurgence. At the same forum, Chinese Major General Meng Xiangqing questioned Japan’s credibility in defense cooperation, citing its wartime legacy.

Koizumi expressed regret that he could not meet his Chinese counterpart but reaffirmed Japan’s readiness for dialogue. He said Japan is determined to play a new role in regional defense cooperation and strengthen deterrence, following Tokyo’s recent easing of its long-standing arms export restrictions.