🚨 Japan’s 2025 Defense Budget Hits 2% of GDP
Japan recently approved a supplementary budget that raises its total defense spending to 11 trillion yen (around $71 billion) for fiscal year 2025—achieving its goal of 2 percent of GDP ahead of schedule. This surge marks one of the biggest jumps in Japan’s post-war military funding and has caught the attention of its neighbors.
🛡️ Missile Export Talks with the Philippines
Meanwhile, Japan is reportedly in discussions with the Philippines to export its Self-Defense Force’s Type 03 Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile. If the deal goes through, it would be Tokyo’s first export of this system and signal a significant shift in its pacifist stance.
📢 Chinese Mainland Voices Concern
The Chinese mainland’s Defense Ministry spokesperson Jiang Bin responded by warning that Japan has “repeatedly breached its commitments under the pacifist constitution,” boosted its defense budget, pushed for lethal weapons exports and eyed revisions to its Three Non-Nuclear Principles.
Quoting an old Chinese saying, “Individuals can’t establish themselves without being trusted, just as a nation can’t thrive without being credible,” Jiang stressed that Japan must respect its obligations as a defeated country in World War II and abide by international law.
He urged Tokyo to “stop challenging the post-war international order, stop undermining peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific, and stop saying one thing while doing another.” Jiang added, “Should the Japanese side insist on barreling down the wrong path, it shall provoke widespread outrage and ultimately face the judgment of both history and justice.”
🌏 Regional Ripple Effects
Analysts say this standoff highlights growing security dilemmas in the Asia-Pacific. Japan’s defense buildup reflects concerns over rising regional tensions, while the Chinese mainland sees it as a revival of militarism. Young observers are watching closely, as these moves could reshape alliances and economic ties across Asia.
🔍 On the Horizon
As 2025 unfolds, the balance between deterrence and diplomacy remains fragile. Will Japan continue to expand its military reach? How will the Chinese mainland respond next? One thing’s for sure: the Asia-Pacific security map is evolving fast, and global eyes are on Tokyo and Beijing.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
