Japan's defence minister Shinjiro Koizumi rejected Beijing's accusations of a 'new militarism', instead criticising China for its 'huge arsenal' and lack of transparency. Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, he argued that China's rapid military expansion and nuclear weapons are of serious concern to the international community. Koizumi insisted Japan's defence buildup is only natural for self-defence and regional peace.
Koizumi promised transparency and dialogue, noting Japan has no nuclear weapons or strategic bombers unlike China. He sidestepped a Chinese question about WWII apologies, while reiterating Japan's openness to communication. Japan has increased defence spending for 12 consecutive years, aiming for 2% of GDP, and plans to revise its pacifist constitution, sparking domestic protests.