Beijing, Apr 21 (EFE).- China said Tuesday it was “seriously concerned” following Japan’s decision to allow the export of lethal weapons, a major shift from the country’s postwar pacifist policy.
Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Guo Jiakun told a press conference that “Japan’s recent series of dangerous moves in the field of military security have exposed the contradiction in its self-proclaimed identity as a peaceful country and one limited to exclusive self-defense.”
The spokesman added that the international community “will remain highly vigilant and firmly oppose Japan’s new form of militarization.”
Guo also urged Tokyo to consider its historical past and act prudently to avoid creating unrest among its neighbors, while recalling that, after World War II, Japan adopted strict restrictions on military development and arms exports.
The Japanese government on Tuesday endorsed scrapping its ban on the export of defense equipment, which will allow the country to sell lethal weapons, such as missiles and warships, to international partners with whom it has defense cooperation agreements.
The legislation reform also includes a clause that contemplates the possibility of exporting weapons to countries in conflict if «special circumstances» exist, representing a significant change from the restrictions in place since World War II.
The measure is part of the security strategy adopted by Tokyo in 2022, which focused on strengthening its military capabilities through increased defense spending and the acquisition of advanced weaponry.
In recent years, China has expressed concern about what it considers an expansion of Japan’s military role, amid growing tensions in the Asia-Pacific region and strategic competition in the area.
Beijing has repeatedly stated that, given its history, Japan must act prudently in security matters and contribute to regional stability. EFE
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