The Japanese government released the '2026 Defense White Paper,' reiterating China as an 'unprecedented strategic challenge' and highlighting Beijing's intensified military activities around Taiwan in recent years. The Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed strong dissatisfaction, stating it has lodged diplomatic protests with Japan.

According to reports by Chinese media Global Times, Japan released the '2026 Defense White Paper' yesterday. During a press briefing, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson was asked for comment.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated today that the new white paper 'once again groundlessly criticizes and defames China, stirs up the so-called China threat, and recklessly comments on Taiwan affairs.' China expressed 'strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition' and has 'lodged serious diplomatic representations with Japan.'

Lin Jian pointed out that the white paper emphasizes developing long-range offensive capabilities and new forms of warfare, urging Japan to 'deeply reflect on its historical responsibilities, learn from historical lessons, and stop seeking pretexts for military expansion.'

Japan's Ministry of Defense released the '2026 Defense White Paper' on the 4th, maintaining China's designation as Japan's 'greatest strategic challenge.' The document notes that China and Russia have deepened strategic cooperation and increased joint military activities in recent years.

The white paper analyzes that China has repeatedly conducted military exercises in the airspace and waters surrounding Taiwan, attempting to normalize such activities as a fait accompli while enhancing combat readiness.

In response to the regional security environment, Japan will continue to rely on the U.S.-Japan alliance as the cornerstone of its security, deepen defense cooperation with like-minded countries such as Australia and India, and jointly employ long-range missiles and other 'counterattack capabilities' with U.S. forces to strengthen deterrence and response capabilities. (Editor: Liao Wen-chi / Feng Zhao) 1150805

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  • Source: CNA (Central News Agency)
  • Category: Taiwan