Japan's top government spokesman on May 14 dismissed as groundless the criticism from China and Russia that Japan is 'rearming.' The statement came after a summit between the two countries in Beijing on May 13.
Speaking at a regular press briefing, the official stressed that Japan's military activities remain strictly within the framework of self-defense and comply with international law. He also rejected allegations that Tokyo is accelerating a rearmament program, which has raised concerns among neighboring countries.
Earlier, during the summit, Chinese and Russian leaders expressed concerns over changes in Japan's defense policy, particularly the increase in military spending and security cooperation with Western allies.
However, Japan insists these measures are aimed at addressing an increasingly complex regional security environment and are not targeted at any specific country. Tokyo also called on all parties to strengthen dialogue to reduce tensions and promote mutually beneficial cooperation.
