China hits out at Japan’s ‘erroneous’ defence white paper

Document released on Friday highlights Beijing’s activities around Taiwan and its stronger ties with Moscow

Chinese defence ministry says Tokyo is the one posing serious challenges by forming ‘targeted blocs’

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Japan has labelled China an unprecedented challenge in its latest defence white paper. Photo: Japanese Ministry of Defence

Published: 7:55pm, 29 Jul 2023Updated: 7:57pm, 29 Jul 2023

China has accused Japan of creating “serious challenges” to the world following the release of Tokyo’s annual defence white paper.

Chinese defence ministry spokesman Tan Kefei slammed the report on Saturday, saying it “crudely” interfered in China’s internal affairs and stirred regional tensions.

Tan was responding to the report’s focus on Beijing’s increasing military moves around Taiwan, stronger strategic coordination with Moscow and “attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by force” in disputed waters.

“[The Chinese army] has never challenged anyone, let alone threatened anyone,” he said.

“On the contrary, in recent years, the Japanese side has … moved further down the road of military expansion and followed certain major powers to form targeted blocs ... bringing serious challenges to regional and global peace, security and stability.”

In an apparent swipe at the United States, he also accused “certain countries” of being driven by “their own self-interest” in sending ships and aircraft to the East and South China seas to “show off their military power”.

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