Latest developments in Japan, China is seriously concerned

On April 1, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mao Ning hosted a regular press conference.

A reporter asked: On March 31, Japan’s Minister of Defense Koizumi Jinnjirō announced that Japan would deploy long-range missiles with enemy base attack capability in Kumamoto Prefecture and Shizuoka Prefecture, and said that Japan faces the most complex security environment since the end of the war, calling for building defensive capabilities outside the defense zone. What comments does the Chinese side have on this?

Mao Ning, file photo. Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs website

Mao Ning said that the Chinese side has serious concerns about the above-mentioned actions by Japan. Under the pretext of “defensive counterattack,” Japan has deployed offensive weapons, far exceeding the scope of self-defense and strict self-defense, and seriously violating provisions of international law–effective documents such as the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Declaration, and the Japan Surrender Document. It also seriously violates Japan’s Constitution and existing domestic regulations. This once again shows that Japan’s right-wing forces are pushing security policies to shift in an offensive and expansionist direction. Japan’s “new-style militarism” is threatening regional peace and stability, and the international community should be highly alert to this. I have also noted that many Japanese groups and citizens have clearly expressed opposition.

Mao Ning pointed out that recently, Japanese Self-Defense Forces officials illegally broke into the Chinese Embassy in Japan with knives. Instead of reflecting on the problems of mismanagement and loss of control within the Self-Defense Forces, Japan is busy stirring up external threats and accelerating the buildup of military capabilities. This move is extremely dangerous. We urge Japan, in the strongest terms, to deeply reflect on its history of militarist aggression, keep its commitments in the field of military security, and act prudently.

Press conference highlights

Ministry of Foreign Affairs: China has actively cooperated with Cambodia and other countries, with remarkable results in combating cross-border telecom fraud

The Philippines plans to rename some islands and reefs in the Nansha Islands; Ministry of Foreign Affairs: It infringes on China’s sovereignty over its territory

South Korea relaxes the application requirements for multiple-entry visas for Chinese citizens; Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Conducive to enhancing understanding and exchanges between the two peoples

Did the foreign ministers of China and Pakistan discuss the conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan? Ministry of Foreign Affairs responds

The U.S. is placing limits on China-Pakistan cooperation by manipulating “general licenses”; Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Firmly opposes