China has issued a urgent appeal for international cooperation to counter what it calls "dangerous right-wing attempts" to revive Japan's military expansion. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated Tuesday that Tokyo's accelerated militarization threatens Asia's delicate peace balance, urging nations to "protect WWII's historical lessons."
Why This Matters Now
With Japan reportedly increasing defense spending by 15% this year – its fourth consecutive annual hike – Beijing argues this mirrors 1930s-era nationalism. "We cannot let war trauma repeat," Lin emphasized during the press briefing, flanked by archival photos of postwar peace treaties.
Regional Reactions
While South Korea and the Philippines haven't officially commented, social media in both countries shows trending hashtags like #NeverAgain2026. Meanwhile, Tokyo-based analyst Kei Tanaka told NHK: "Security challenges require dialogue, not polarization."
The debate comes as U.S. and Chinese naval forces conduct rival exercises in the Pacific this month – a modern-day echo of Cold War tensions. 🌊⚓
