China sharpens criticism of Japan’s ‘neo-militarism’, signals readiness to respond

Chinese state media have escalated criticism of what they characterise as Japan’s growing “neo-militarism”, warning that Beijing has sufficient policy tools in reserve to respond should Tokyo endanger China’s core interests.

People’s Daily, a Communist Party mouthpiece, said that “neo-militarism” – the resurgence of Japanese militarism after the end of the second world war – had dealt a serious blow to bilateral relations and undermined regional peace and stability.

“Post-war Japan has failed to carry out a thorough reckoning with militarism … This ‘neo-militarism’, cloaked in the guise of a ‘peaceful nation’, is gradually becoming a real danger to Asia and the world at large,” the commentary stated on Thursday.

The remarks coincide with heightened tensions in Sino-Japanese ties, as Beijing has continued to accuse Tokyo of taking steps to expand its military footprint.

Japan’s Official Security Assistance budget, which provides security equipment aid to like-minded countries, is set to reach a record 18.1 billion yen (US$116 million) under the foreign ministry’s budget proposal for financial year 2026, released on Tuesday – more than double the amount allocated in the previous financial year.

South China Morning Post