Japan's Annual Defense White Paper Raises Concerns On China - Russia Military Cooperation

 

Irish Times/Financial Times: Japan 'gravely concerned' by China and Russia's military co-operation  

Tokyo’s annual defence white paper sets out plans to increase spending  

Japan has warned that deepening military co-operation between China and Russia is of “grave concern” for its security, in the country’s first defence white paper since it set out plans to expand defence spending last year. 

 Beijing and Moscow kicked off their largest joint naval and air exercise in the Sea of Japan earlier this month, underscoring how their collaboration has gained pace following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 

The white paper, which was approved by prime minister Fumio Kishida’s cabinet on Friday, also noted that the overall military balance between China and Taiwan was “rapidly tilting” in Beijing’s favour.  

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WNU editor: This new Japan defense paper is laying the groundwork for a massive defense budget increase .... Japan forecasts large boost to defense spending over next five years (Defense News).  

Update: Beijing has responded to Japan's defense white paper (see video below). 

 

Japan's Annual Defense White Paper Raises Concerns On China - Russia Military Cooperation  

Japan raises alarm over China’s military, Russia ties and Taiwan tensions in new defense paper -- AP  

Japan Defense White Paper Affirms Stronger Military Strategy -- New York Times 

Japan Airs Concerns on China-Russia Drills in Defense Report -- Bloomberg  

Japan raises concern over China military, says North Korea threat more serious than ever -- CNA  

Japan says North Korea threat more serious than 'ever before' -- France 24  

China eyes accelerated plan for 'world-class military,' Japan says -- Japan Times