Japan's Defense Chief Rejects 'Neo-Militarism' Accusations at Shangri-La Dialogue
Singapore – Speaking at the 23rd IISS Shangri-La Dialogue on May 29, 2026, Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi mounted a vigorous defense of his nation's recent security policy shifts, dismissing accusations of a turn towards militarism as "false."
"Japan's door to dialogue is always open."
— Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi
Key Arguments from Tokyo
Koizumi acknowledged Japan's recent policy changes, including the lift on its ban on lethal arms exports and ongoing discussions regarding revising Article 9 of its constitution. However, he framed these moves within a context of Japan's continued commitment to peace and international law.
- On Defense Spending: Koizumi defended the nation’s increased military budget.
- On "Neo-Militarism": He explicitly rejected the label as a mischaracterization.
- On Strategic Posture: In a pointed remark, Koizumi noted that Japan does not possess nuclear weapons or strategic bombers, contrasting its capabilities with those of other major powers.
A Notable Absence Stirs 'Sadness'
The Minister expressed disappointment over the absence of his Chinese counterpart, Defense Minister Dong Jun. Dong attended the forum last year but skipped the 2026 session.
"Unfounded claims made in the other side's absence are not needed," Koizumi stated, expressing "sadness" that he was unable to meet with Dong Jun directly in Singapore.
China's Stance: A Call to 'Contain' Japan
The Chinese delegation, led by Major General Meng Xiangqing, presented a sharply contrasting view. On the eve of the dialogue (May 28), China's Ministry of National Defense called on the international community to contain Japan's "neo-militarism."
Adding historical weight to the criticism, Major General Meng referenced the 80th anniversary of the International Military Tribunal for the Far East, underscoring the long shadow of history in the current strategic friction between the two nations.