Kathmandu— China's Ministry of National Defense issued a strong rebuke Thursday against Japan’s growing military capabilities, citing concerns over its expansion of defense infrastructure, plans for advanced weaponry, and security agreements with other nations. Spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang warned that Japan’s actions represent a dangerous agenda pursued by right-wing forces and could destabilize the region, referencing historical grievances stemming from World War II. The statement comes in response to recent developments including planned increases to Japan's defense budget, equipping unmanned underwater vehicles with long-range missiles, and joint missile testing with Australia.

Escalating Military Actions

Zhang Xiaogang specifically highlighted several actions by Japan as cause for concern, including the expansion of its Ministry of Defense. He also pointed to plans to equip unmanned underwater vehicles with long-range missiles and a recent agreement between Japan and Australia to test hypersonic missile technology in Australia. These developments, Zhang argued, demonstrate a clear acceleration of Japan’s military buildup.

Historical Concerns

The Chinese defense spokesperson emphasized that Japan's actions are particularly troubling given its history as a defeated power in World War II. He noted that the Potsdam Proclamation and Japan’s own pacifist constitution prohibit the acquisition of offensive weapons. Zhang stated, “As a warmongering and aggressive power in the past, Japan has never genuinely reflected on its historical crimes.” He warned that allowing Japan to rearm could lead to a repetition of past conflicts.

Call for International Intervention

Zhang urged the international community to take action to prevent further escalation. He called for firm containment of what he termed “reckless moves of Japan’s ‘neo-militarism’” and stressed the importance of safeguarding regional peace and stability. The statement signals a growing sense of unease in Beijing regarding Tokyo's evolving military posture.

China has indicated it will continue to monitor Japan’s military developments closely and is seeking international support to counter what it perceives as a rising threat to regional security.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.