The Foreign Ministry Expresses Serious Concern Over Japan's Advancement of Cooperation with NATO

On June 1, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said it was seriously concerned about Japan's move to advance cooperation with NATO. Spokesperson Lin Jian said in response at a regular press briefing that Japan had recently arranged for multiple SelfDefense Force personnel to be stationed at NATO's Ukraine Security Assistance and Training Headquarters, and had stated that it wanted to “learn lessons” from the RussiaUkraine conflict; China expressed concern over this. Lin Jian pointed out that Japan has recently been vigorously advancing “remilitarization” and frequently interacting with military organizations outside the region, expanding the operational scope of the SelfDefense Forces and promoting a more combatcapable operational system. He said these practices have gone beyond Japan's Constitution, international law, domestic regulations, and the principle of “exclusive defense.” He also said that the relevant developments run counter to Japan's selfstyled image as a “peaceful country” and could pose risks to regional peace and stability. The international community should remain vigilant about this.