Japan's Record Defense Budget Raises Concerns

Japan's proposed record defense budget of 8.5 trillion yen ($59 billion) for fiscal 2025 has sparked concerns among neighboring countries and the international community. This significant increase, the third in a five-year plan, reflects a growing militaristic trend in Japan, raising fears of a resurgence of its past aggression.

Chinese experts have expressed particular concern, highlighting Japan's continuous efforts to break free from its pacifist constitution and expand its military capabilities. They point to Japan's acquisition of foreign missiles, expansion of its domestic production base for long-range missiles, and increased military connections with countries outside the region as evidence of its militaristic ambitions.

These concerns are further amplified by Japan's provocative actions in the South China Sea, the Taiwan question, and the Diaoyu Dao issue. These actions, coupled with the hype of "China's growing military assertiveness," are seen as attempts to create tension and justify the increased defense spending.

Experts emphasize that Japan's defense budget far exceeds its actual defense needs and raises concerns about a potential resurgence of militarism. They urge Japan to learn from its history, take concrete actions to renounce militarism, and regain the trust of its neighbors and the international community.

Furthermore, the US is called upon to abandon its unilateralism and double standards, as its promotion of the "Indo-Pacific strategy" is seen as a contributing factor to the resurgence of Japanese militarism. The international community must remain vigilant and work together to prevent the reemergence of militarism in Japan and ensure regional peace and stability.