Chinese Foreign Ministry on Friday condemned Japan's role in NATO's expansion into the Asia-Pacific region, criticizing its interference in China's internal affairs.
During a regular press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian made the remarks in response to a meeting between Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Wednesday, where Japan reaffirmed its continued role in strengthening NATO's cooperation with Indo-Pacific partners. The joint statement issued by both sides made negative remarks against China on issues concerning the East China Sea, South China Sea, and the Taiwan Strait.
"China has taken note of the situation. China expresses strong dissatisfaction with and resolute opposition to Japan's collaboration with NATO to interfere in China's internal affairs, inflame regional tensions, and provoke confrontation. The Asia-Pacific region is a high ground for cooperation and development, and it does not need military blocs, nor does it need major power confrontation or the instigation of a new Cold War through 'small circles'. NATO, as a regional defensive military alliance, should not exceed the geographical scope defined by its own treaty or extend its power beyond its bounds," said Lin.
"Due to historical reasons, Japan's military and security developments have long drawn the attention of its Asian neighbors and the international community. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Japan should draw profound lessons from history, adhere to the path of Asia-Pacific cooperation, and play a constructive role in safeguarding and promoting peace, stability, and development in the region and globally. Acting as the 'spearhead' of NATO's expansion into the Asia-Pacific will only lead to negative consequences for Japan," Lin added.
China warns Japan over its role as NATO's "spearhead" in Asia-Pacific: spokesman
China warns Japan over its role as NATO's "spearhead" in Asia-Pacific: spokesman
The Iranian government is focusing on public concerns and maintaining stable supplies of essential goods amid recent protests, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said in a televised interview on Sunday.
In the city of Karaj, northwest of the capital Tehran, daily life has largely continued as normal. A video filmed by a local resident on Sunday shows food stores open and grocery shelves fully stocked.
"This is the block near my home, and there are some food stores here. Daily life continues here. Last night we did not see many protests in Karaj. Right now the city is very safe. This is a grocery store close to my home. All the food is available; nothing is in shortage. Here are noodles and different types of beans. Here are dairy products, cheese, and yogurt. I also checked other grocery stores and didn't see any shortages. Everything is available," said local resident Ali Reza.
Iranian officials have described recent disturbances as acts orchestrated by the "enemy," including some carried out by well-trained and armed "terrorists." The incidents have caused casualties among security personnel and civilians, as well as property damage.
The Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani has directed authorities to severely punish the "terrorists."
Meanwhile, Iran's police chief Ahmad-Reza Radan said on Sunday that the police had raised alert levels and arrested several leaders of the troublemakers during the operations on Saturday.
President Pezeshkian noted in the interview that the normal demands of the Iranian people are reasonable and justified, but they must realize that triggering riots and carrying out terrorist acts are the enemy's attempts to undermine the country. He urged the public to remain vigilant.
Also on Sunday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned that Tehran would regard U.S. and Israeli bases and facilities in the Middle East as "legitimate targets" if Washington takes military action against Iran. His remarks followed media reports saying U.S. President Donald Trump is "seriously considering authorizing a strike" against Iran.
Iranian state media reported that at least 109 members of Iran's security forces have been killed in clashes since the protests began 14 days ago. Meanwhile, human rights groups based outside the country said the number of protesters killed has exceeded 200, though the figure could not be independently verified.
The protests initially erupted over a sharp depreciation of the rial and sweeping subsidy reforms. Iranian authorities have blamed the unrest on foreign-linked agents and sanctions imposed by the United States.
Iranian president says government focusing on ensuring supplies amid protests
