Kathmandu— On Tuesday, a Chinese defense spokesperson strongly criticized Japan's newly released defense white paper, which describes China as the country's greatest strategic challenge. The spokesperson accused Japan of using security concerns to justify increased military spending and expansion.

China Rejects 'False Narratives' in White Paper

Chen Xi, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, dismissed the white paper as filled with false narratives. He stated that Japan's accusations against China are a classic case of “a thief crying ‘stop thief.’” Chen expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the document, emphasizing that it serves as an excuse for Japan to ease restrictions on military buildup.

Japan’s Military Expansion Concerns

According to Chen Xi, Japan's ruling authorities have been accelerating revisions of key security documents. This includes increasing defense spending and expanding long-range strike capabilities. The spokesperson warned that these actions pose a serious challenge to the postwar international order and threaten regional peace and stability.

Chen also highlighted the growing militarization in Japan, noting efforts to embed military expansion into national institutions, industries, and public opinion.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.