Moscow, Russia – Chinese Ambassador to Russia, Zhang Hanhui, affirmed that Beijing and Moscow will continue to firmly oppose any Japanese moves toward acquiring nuclear military capabilities. He asserted that such actions could threaten stability and security in the Asia-Pacific region. The Chinese ambassador stated that both countries reject any attempts to revive Japanese militarism. He also emphasized the importance of adhering to the principles established by the post-World War II international order and preventing a return to arms-raising policies. Such policies, he warned, could lead to increased regional tensions.
The Chinese statements come amid Japan’s expanding defense capabilities and increased military spending. These policies coincide with enhanced security and military cooperation with the United States and several of its allies in the Indo-Pacific region. Beijing and Moscow believe that any move by Japan toward acquiring nuclear weapons would open the door to a new arms race in East Asia. Furthermore, it would further complicate the security landscape in a region already experiencing escalating tensions between major powers.
The Chinese ambassador stressed that Beijing and Moscow will continue coordinating on security and strategic issues in the face of what they consider moves that threaten regional stability, emphasizing the need to maintain stability and prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons. These statements highlight the extent of Chinese and Russian concern regarding the shifts in Japanese defense policy. This comes at a time of accelerating realignment of military alliances and expansion of defense capabilities in the Asia-Pacific region.
