China has formally protested against Japan over what it describes as “erroneous and negative” remarks in Japan’s recently released 2025 defense white paper, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
On Wednesday, Liu Jinsong, Director General of the Department of Asian Affairs at the Chinese Foreign Ministry, summoned Yokochi Akira, Chief Minister of the Embassy of Japan in China, to lodge a solemn representation.
The ministry expressed strong dissatisfaction with the content of Japan’s defense white paper, claiming it misrepresents China’s stance and actions in the region.
“Japan’s actions are detrimental to the mutual trust and cooperation between our countries,” a ministry spokesperson stated. “We urge Japan to correct its mistakes and take concrete actions to maintain the stability of China-Japan relations.”
The defense white paper is an annual publication in which Japan outlines its defense policies and assessments of the international security environment. China has often criticized previous editions for their portrayal of its military developments.
This development highlights ongoing tensions between the two nations over regional security and historical issues.
