The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Japan must not revisit its commitment to the international system established after World War II, emphasizing the necessity of respecting its international obligations regarding nuclear non-proliferation. Xinhua Agency quoted Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning in remarks published on Saturday, commenting on Japanese positions regarding the possibility of allowing US nuclear-armed ships to dock in Japan during crises, stating that these remarks "again reveal what it described as the growing ambitions of Japanese authorities to possess nuclear weapons."
Warnings of a Threat to Stability
Mao added that the current Japanese government is seeking to gradually ease nuclear restrictions, strengthen "extended deterrence" arrangements with its allies, and abandon the three non-nuclear principles, warning that these moves pose a serious threat to peace and stability in Asia and the world. It urged Japan to address the concerns of the international community, review its military history, and abandon efforts to rearm and move toward acquiring nuclear weapons.
Controversy Over Nuclear Policies
Previous remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding the possibility of considering allowing US nuclear-armed ships to dock in Japanese ports during crises, and proposing exceptions to the three non-nuclear principles, sparked debate over the extent of Tokyo's commitment to its existing nuclear policy. China had previously urged Japan on September 21 to respond to calls from regional countries and cease any attempt at rearmament.
Historical Background of Tensions
Sino-Japanese relations have recently seen a noticeable return to tension, an escalation reflecting accumulated historical differences between the two countries, with roots extending back more than a century, starting from the Japanese invasion of China, through major wars, to the normalization of relations in the 1970s. This historical background has left permanent scars on bilateral relations, such that every political statement or military move is interpreted within a context burdened by suspicion and mutual distrust.
Source: Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA)
Comments (0)