China criticizes Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s proposal for an Asian NATO-like security structure, urging Tokyo to avoid exclusive military alliances and be cautious in its security actions. Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Wu Qian stated that Japan is exaggerating the ‘China threat’ to divert attention from its military expansion, with Beijing strongly opposing this idea.
Ishiba’s suggestion of an “Asian version of NATO” has faced skepticism both domestically and internationally, with the controversial issue seemingly on hold due to an upcoming general election. China calls on Japan to prioritize actions that promote regional peace and stability, pointing out Japan’s increasing arms expansion in recent years.
Ishiba has directed his party to discuss the Asian NATO concept after the upcoming election, with the ruling Liberal Democratic Party yet to include the idea in its campaign promises. The debate on this security structure is expected to begin after the House of Representatives election on Oct 27.
© KYODO