Japan's exaggeration of so-called external threats is unfounded and driven by its ulterior motives, Defense Ministry spokesman Jiang Bin said at a press conference in Beijing on Thursday.
Jiang made the remarks in response to a media query regarding Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's comments that Japan needs to prepare for prolonged conflicts.
"We are all aware of the undeniable fact that Japan invaded all of its neighboring countries. As a nation that once inflicted profound suffering upon the people of Asia and the world, and that has yet to genuinely reflect on its historical crimes of aggression, Japan is now keeping exaggerating the so-called external threats -- a completely unfounded narrative driven by ulterior motives. It's more than obvious that the true intention of the Japanese administration is to divert public attention from domestic problems, mislead the international community and pursue 'remilitarization'. The Japanese side has pushed forward the revision of the three national security documents, vigorously developed offensive military capabilities, and even clamored for the possession of nuclear weapons. Such dangerous moves are very alarming," said Jiang.
"China upholds the principle of looking towards the future while learning from history. The crux of the issue is to heed historical warnings so that past tragedies will never be repeated. Peace-loving people around the world should unite to resolutely curb the resurgence and spread of 'neo-militarism' in Japan, and to firmly uphold regional peace and stability for the safety and well-being of the people," he said.
Japan's exaggeration of so-called external threats is driven by ulterior motives: spokesman
