On Thursday, December 25, 2025, against a backdrop of shifting regional dynamics, Chinas Ministry of National Defense issued a call to action for all peace-loving nations to curb what it describes as a resurgent wave of militarism in Japan. Spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang spoke to the media, responding to recent remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and other senior officials hinting at nuclear armament options.
The Japanese Ministry of Defense report criticized Chinas "rapidly growing defense spending" and outlined plans to deploy mobile radar units in Okinawa by 2026 to monitor Chinese military activities. Beijing viewed this assessment as misleading.
"Chinas defense expenditure is reasonable, moderate, and remains below the global average as a share of GDP," Zhang asserted. He emphasized that Chinese military operations in relevant waters fully comply with international law and practice, and "brook no interference or provocation."
Zhang warned of an increasingly visible and dangerous trend toward remilitarization in Japan, describing it as a challenge to the post-World War II international order and the global non-proliferation regime. He added, "These actions pose a severe threat to peace and stability in the region and beyond."
The spokesperson urged Japan to end what he called "false narratives" and halt targeted deployments aimed at monitoring Chinese activities. "We will take resolute countermeasures against any harassment or provocations," he said.
As tensions mount, Chinas appeal for a united front among peace-loving nations underscores broader concerns about regional security. With Japan accelerating its military buildup, the potential for miscalculations grows, raising urgent questions about how the Asia-Pacific can safeguard stability.
"We call upon all peace-loving nations and peoples to take action to resolutely contain the revival of militarism by Japans right-wing forces, and prevent the world from sliding into turmoil or reliving tragedies of the past," Zhang concluded.
Reference(s):
China calls for united efforts to contain Japan's militarism revival
cgtn.com
